Manchester United Transfer News Roundup: Red Devils want Bruno Fernandes stay; club eyeing Benjamin Sesko, and more - May 18, 2024
Manchester United are putting together final preparations ahead of their trip to the Amex on Sunday, May 19, to face Brighton & Hove Albion in the Premier League. Erik ten Hag's team are coming off a 3-2 midweek win over Newcastle United in the league.
Meanwhile, the Red Devils have no plans to offload midfielder Bruno Fernandes this summer. Elsewhere, the English giants are interested in RB Leipzig striker Benjamin Sesko.
On that note, here's a look at the key Manchester United transfer stories as on May 18, 2024:
Manchester United want Bruno Fernandes stay
Manchester United will not listen to offer for Bruno Fernandes this summer, according to Caught Offside.
The Portuguese midfielder's future has been subject to speculation recently. Erik ten Hag has played down rumours of a possible exit, insisting that the player remains key to his plans. It now appears that the club share the same sentiment.
Fernandes has been outstanding since joining the Premier League giants from Sporting in 2020. This season, he has been a rare shining light amid the team's struggles.
The 29-year-old has appeared 46 times across competitions, registering 15 goals and 12 assists. He could be a fabulous addition to any top team in Europe, but the Red Devils are adamant that he won't leave. The player's contract with the club runs till 2026.
Red Devils eyeing Benjamin Sesko, says journalist
Manchester United are keeping a close eye on Benjamin Sesko, according to journalist Christian Falk.
The Slovenian striker has been in fine form for RB Leipzig this season, scoring 17 goals and registering two assists in 41 outings across competitions. His efforts have apparently turned heads at Old Trafford.
In his column for Caught Offside, Falk added that Arsenal and AC Milan also have their eyes on the 20-year-old.
“Benjamin Sesko is the hottest Bundesliga stock in England at the moment. Arsenal FC and Manchester United are particularly interested in the striker.
"In Leipzig, they say: Sesko is physically even stronger than Erling Haaland (Manchester City). Both strikers were trained at Red Bull Salzburg," wrote Falk.
He continued:
"Like Haaland, Sesko also demanded an exit clause for a move to the Bundesliga. This clause amounted to €50m. But due to his strong performances and many appearances, the clause has now been increased to €75m for this summer."
He concluded:
“Arsenal and United now know what they have to put on the table for Sesko. Sesko’s advisor has already appeared in the stands at a United game.
"That’s part of his game. He's also had his picture taken in the stands at an AC Milan game. Milan are also interested in Sesko.”
Sesko's contract with the Bundesliga side runs till 2028.
Former player advises Antony to leave Old Trafford
Brazil football legend Rivaldo has advised Antony to leave Manchester United this summer.
The Brazilian forward arrived from Ajax in 2022 in a £86 million move but has failed to live up to expectations. This season, the 22-year-old has managed just three goals and two assists in 38 outings across competitions and is no longer a first-team regular.
Speaking to Betfair, Rivaldo advised his compatriot to move to Spain, Germany or Italy.
“I still say Manchester United winger Antony is a great player. He’s already played in a World Cup for Brazil, and he’s still young with plenty of football to play.
"Moving to a side in Spain, Germany or Italy could be fundamental for his progression now," said Rivaldo.
He continued:
“With his skills and the football that he can play, I think that he would fit very well into any big team in Spain, for example.
"It could be good for him to go to a club where he can return to playing regularly and aim to get back into the Brazilian team, who knows, maybe in 2026 he can play in another World Cup.”
Recent reports have suggested that the Red Devils are willing to listen to offers for Antony this summer.