3 Reasons Why Rio Ferdinand Believes Manchester United Should Avoid Benjamin Sesko

Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand has advised his former club against pursuing RB Leipzig striker Benjamin Sesko, suggesting they focus on alternative targets.

Despite securing Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo this summer, United are still seeking to strengthen their attack after a season where Amad and Bruno Fernandes topped their scoring charts with just eight league goals each.

While 22-year-old Sesko, who netted 21 times across all competitions last season, has attracted interest from United and Arsenal, Ferdinand believes the Red Devils require a more seasoned striker.

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Speaking on his YouTube channel, Rio Ferdinand laid out three key reasons why the Red Devils should steer clear of the highly rated Slovenian forward.

Ferdinand stressed that Manchester United cannot afford another ‘project’ striker. With young forwards like Rasmus Hojlund, Joshua Zirkzee, and prospect Chido Obi already in the squad, Ferdinand believes the club must bring in a seasoned forward who can deliver instantly and mentor the younger talents.

"I think you've got to look at the here and now with Man United. I'm not doubting Sesko as a player, but Man United need experience up front," Rio Ferdinand said.

“They need someone they can learn from, someone who can show them how to play as a number nine."

Highlighting Manchester United’s struggles in front of goal, where Amad Diallo and Bruno Fernandes were the club’s top league scorers with just eight goals, Rio Ferdinand argued that signing another untested player is a gamble.

“Buying someone without much experience is another risk at this level. Is it worth taking with inexperienced players?” he asked.

Manchester United need reliability and presence up front, not another forward who may need time to adapt.

Rather than signing a striker like Benjamin Sesko, Rio Ferdinand surprisingly urged the club to focus on midfield, specifically targeting Brighton’s Carlos Baleba.

“If I don’t get a striker, I’d go midfield. There’s only one name I’m thinking about: Baleba,” he said.

Rio Ferdinand believes Baleba would significantly impact the squad, freeing up other midfielders defensively.

Baleba, 21, joined Brighton from Lille for around £26 million in 2023 and made 34 league appearances last season.

“I’d break the bank,” Ferdinand added.

Meanwhile, Manchester United's current striking options combined for just seven league goals last season. The club hopes to boost its transfer budget by selling Alejandro Garnacho, Antony, Jadon Sancho, and Tyrell Malacia, all omitted from the pre-season tour of the US.

While Benjamin Sesko remains on the radar of top clubs, Rio Ferdinand’s comments underscore the growing concerns around signing potential over proven pedigree, especially for a club desperate for short-term results.