Revealed: Man Utd plotting 'last-minute gamble' on 43-goal striker if Benjamin Sesko transfer pursuit fails

United face fierce competition from fellow Premier League side Newcastle United in the race for Sesko. The Magpies have increased their bid to €80 million (£69.6m/$92.5m) in an effort to convince Leipzig to part with their highly rated striker. This has forced the Red Devils to scour the market for alternatives, and TuttoSport suggests that the think tank has zeroed in on Juventus forward Dusan Vlahovic. 

While United remain focused on Sesko, reports out of Italy suggest that intermediaries connected to Vlahovic have made overtures toward the English club. He is reportedly seeking a fresh challenge and has declined to commit to a new deal in Turin, which has spurred his entourage to actively explore options that align with his financial expectations and career goals. United are now weighing a "last-minute gamble" on Vlahovic if they step back from Sesko.

Back in June, TuttoJuve reported that a possible swap deal involving Jadon Sancho and Vlahovic was under discussion. While that arrangement never came to fruition, it marked the beginning of speculation linking the Serbian forward with a move to Old Trafford. Despite initial optimism in Italy that a player-plus-cash exchange might materialise, talks eventually stalled, and no agreement was reached.

Vlahovic, who has scored 43 Serie A goals for Juve to date, does not have a lengthy list of suitors, as only AC Milan have shown tangible interest in securing his services, though they too are weighing their financial limits before making a move. This makes the Serbian an affordable target for United, who have already invested nearly £135m ($179m) this summer to acquire Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha. 

Should Leipzig accept an improved offer from the Magpies for Sesko, United may be forced to act quickly to avoid entering the new season without a new No.9 In that event, Vlahovic could represent a calculated risk; an experienced striker with top-level pedigree, ready for a new challenge, and available under the right terms.