Manchester United confirm signing of RB Leipzig striker Benjamin Sesko

Manchester United have announced the signing of RB Leipzig striker Benjamin Sesko in a move worth £73.7m.

The 22-year-old has put pen to paper on a five-year deal after completing his medical.

United will pay an initial £66.3m (€76.5m) and £7.37m (€8.5m) in performance-related add-ons.

The Slovenia international will be formally presented at Old Trafford on Saturday when United face Fiorentina in their final pre-season friendly.

He is United’s third major signing in attack following the arrivals of Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo from Wolves and Brentford, respectively.

Newcastle United were heavily linked with a move for the 22-year-old and on Tuesday made a second bid of £69.7m plus add-ons, which was higher than Man United’s – after an initial offer of just under £70m (€80m) plus add-ons.

However, Sesko has chosen to join Ruben Amorim’s side.

“The history of Manchester United is obviously very special but what really excites me is the future,” said Sesko.

“When we discussed the project, it was clear that everything is in place for this team to continue to grow and compete for the biggest trophies again soon.

“From the moment that I arrived, I could feel the positive energy and family environment that the club has created. It is clearly the perfect place to reach my maximum level and fulfil all of my ambitions.

“I cannot wait to start learning from Ruben and connecting with my team-mates to achieve the success that we all know we are capable of together.”

The highly-rated forward was absent from RB Leipzig’s pre-season friendly loss to Atalanta on Saturday due to his expected departure from the club.