Rasmus Hojlund’s Manchester United future is coming into focus with an expectation that he will move on this summer.
He has been figuring during the pre-season tour in America but Manchester United’s push for Benjamin Sesko is a clear signal that they are prioritising a new goalscorer, even after bringing in both Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha.
Hojlund’s lack of end product has become a growing concern and a fresh start away from the Premier League looks likely.
RB Leipzig are one possible destination, especially as Manchester United become serious about signing Sesko from the German club.
Inter Milan have still been keeping an eye on the situation as well. They made an approach earlier in the window about a loan, but Manchester United were not open to that at the time.
That stance might soften if Hojlund remains on the books into the final stretch of the window. If so, expect more clubs to circle. A move would give Hojlund the platform to rediscover his form and rebuild confidence.
Meanwhile, sources say Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim actually prefers Ollie Watkins over Sesko.
He sees Watkins as a better fit for the system he is building - but the problem is the price.
Manchester United are not willing to pay more than £50 million for Watkins, and Aston Villa are not prepared to lower their demands. Unless the player himself forces a move - which has not happened - there is little room to work with.
There had been a strong expectation that Manchester United would at least try to strike a deal and some sources say they did approach Villa over the weekend.
But behind the scenes, recruitment chief Christopher Vivell has been working hard to convince the decision-makers that Sesko is the better long-term option.
Age, upside, and resale value are all part of the pitch. Vivell has also been arguing that Sesko can develop into the kind of forward who fits Amorim’s tactical ideas, even if there are still some doubts about that.
There is no question that the data supports Watkins - his output over the last two seasons has been consistent and impressive. Manchester United know he was open to the move.
Sesko is also keen on Manchester United, but this week is likely to be decisive. He has to choose his move.
If Newcastle miss out on Sesko, it is not impossible they then make their own move for Watkins.