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Manchester United have quietly taken the lead in a tug-of-war for Benjamin Šeško, and that alone would be news. But what’s caught my attention is the contract detail that’s shaping up off the pitch: a clause that could slash his wages by 25 percent if United don’t make the Champions League next season.
Here Is The Full Player Profile of Benjamin Sesko
| Category | Details |
| Full Name | Benjamin Šeško |
| Date of Birth | May 31, 2003 (Age: 22) |
| Place of Birth | Radeče, Slovenia |
| Nationality | Slovenian |
| Height | 1.95 m (6 ft 5 in) |
| Position | Striker/Center-Forward |
| Preferred Foot | Right |
| Current Club (2025) | RB Leipzig (pending move to Manchester United) |
| Previous Clubs | Red Bull Salzburg (Austria), FC Liefering (Austria), RB Leipzig (Germany) |
| Transfer to Leipzig | Joined in 2023 from Red Bull Salzburg |
| International Career | Slovenia National Team – Senior debut in 2021; over 25 caps and 11 goals |
| 2024–25 Season Stats | 18 goals and 5 assists in all competitions for RB Leipzig |
| Playing Style | Aerially dominant, quick off the mark, excellent movement and finishing |
| Strengths | Height, pace, shot power, composure in front of goal |
| Weaknesses | Link-up play under pressure, experience in top-tier leagues |
| Potential New Club | Manchester United (Premier League) |
| Estimated Fee | £65–74 million |
| Contract Clause | 25% wage reduction if United miss out on the Champions League |
| Agent | Sports Invest Group |
| Market Value (2025) | Estimated at £55 million |
Where Things Stand
SVRB Leipzig has seen bids from both Manchester United and Newcastle somewhere in the region of £65–74 million, plus add-ons—making this a rare transfer showdown between two Premier League heavyweights. Newcastle’s offer edged higher in net terms, thanks to their Champions League football. Yet reports suggest Šeško himself is leaning toward United despite that advantage. He has personally agreed to terms (a five-year deal reportedly running until 2030), and all that remains is negotiating with his current club. The deal, sources say, is very close to being finalized.
The Clause That Changes Everything
Here’s where things get interesting. It’s no secret how hard it has been for Manchester United to grab hold of stability. The club regularly includes a Champions League clause in contracts—something that affects several first-team players—and now it looks certain Šeško will too. If United misses out on Europe’s premier competition, his salary would automatically be reduced by 25 percent. It’s a stark reminder that not every deal is about headline numbers. Contracts can be about managing risk, not just reward.
Why It Matters
There are a couple of reasons this moves from quirky inside-baseball to meaningful football news:
- Financial realism at a top-flight club
When you’re not guaranteed the Champions League, salaries must reflect that. It’s harsh, but it’s real. Players live with pressure. This clause enshrines it in pen. - Šeško’s sense of timing
Opting for United over a Champions League-ready Newcastle suggests confidence—either in United’s turnaround or in personal career timing. It says: “I want to be part of the fix.”
What Comes Next
- RB Leipzig talks are the final piece. They’re still negotiating the fee. Given the sums involved, this could take a few days or weeks.
- United faces strategic decisions on squad balance. This move risks sidelining Rasmus Højlund unless he has a role carved out elsewhere.
- Newcastle and others reassess. If Šeško really is off the table for the Toon, they’ll turn make-or-break attention back to signings like Ollie Watkins or Lois Openda.
Final Thought
Check his ego at the door. Even for big names like Šeško, this isn’t just about money. It’s about clarity. Most of the time, football fans measure transfer fees and agent drama. It’s less common to spot the part of the deal about not qualifying for Europe. Yet that’s where this one takes shape. It’s a foreshadowing of culture, expectation, and responsibility—just as much as ambition.