Manchester United have cooled their interest in Brighton midfielder Carlos Baleba, with club chiefs unwilling to meet the Seagulls’ hefty asking price.
This is after United had already spent over £200m on attacking reinforcements this summer.
Baleba, who is keen on a move to Old Trafford, will now have to wait at least another year as United turn their attention to bedding in new signing Benjamin Sesko.
The 21-year-old Slovenian striker, signed from RB Leipzig, is tipped by manager Ruben Amorim to become United’s long-term No.9.
With Rasmus Hojlund set for a loan switch to AC Milan and Mason Mount recently deployed as a false striker, Sesko could be thrust into action immediately despite limited preparation time.
Sunday’s clash against Arsenal will see Sesko face Viktor Gyokeres, the Swedish forward long linked with United before opting for the Gunners.
Gyokeres has already made his mark with a goal in pre-season and offers Arsenal a powerful target man option, while Sesko combines strength with greater mobility.
Gyokeres, 27, has scored over 100 goals in the past two seasons, whereas Sesko’s 39 strikes in the same period make him Europe’s most prolific player under 23.
The game at Old Trafford will now pit the two strikers head-to-head, to kick-off their clubs campaign.