Man Utd transfer news: Sesko top target for Old Trafford amid Newcastle interest

RB Leipzig striker Benjamin Sesko is emerging as a top target for Manchester United in this transfer window – if they bring in a striker.

One source has told Sky Sports News that Man Utd have held initial talks with the Bundesliga side and the player's representatives over the conditions of a deal.

Newcastle United are also interested in the 22-year-old, but it is thought that, as it stands, Man Utd is Sesko's preferred destination.

The interest in Sesko is being driven by Man Utd recruitment director Christopher Vivell, who is widely credited for scouting Sesko for Red Bull Salzburg when he was 16.

Man Utd's interest in Sesko is long-standing - they have been keeping an eye on his development for a number of years.

While the focus is clearly on player sales, United have done due diligence on a number of strikers in this window.

Talks have been held with Aston Villa over Ollie Watkins, while there was also a tentative interest in Chelsea's Nicolas Jackson.

However, the prices and structure for those players have been deemed too high at this stage.

While Sesko would cost more than Watkins overall, it is thought that a more favourable structure could be struck with Leipzig.

It is thought Leipzig want in excess of £70m for Sesko.

The Slovenia international had been a target for Arsenal before they decided to seal a £63.5m deal for Viktor Gyokeres.

Sky Sports understands Sesko's camp turned down a proposal from a Saudi Pro League club last week.