Newcastle United has enhanced its bid for striker Benjamin Sesko from RB Leipzig, according to reports from Sky in Germany. The club is now offering a fixed fee of £69.7 million (approximately €80 million), along with performance-related add-ons. This marks an escalation from Newcastle’s initial offer of £65.3 million plus £4.36 million in bonuses, which was made as part of ongoing negotiations over the player.
The revised offer comes as Newcastle continues to engage with Leipzig regarding the structure of the deal. Meanwhile, Manchester United is also expected to submit a formal offer for Sesko. The club has been in discussions with RB Leipzig about their financial capacity to recruit the player. Sources indicate that Sesko is open to both Newcastle and Manchester United, but is reportedly leaning towards the latter if an agreement can be reached.
United’s pursuit of Sesko raises questions about the future of striker Rasmus Hojlund at Old Trafford. The club is thought to be evaluating suitable offers for Hojlund, although they initially anticipated needing to offload players before acquiring a new striker. Interestingly, RB Leipzig has expressed interest in Hojlund and has explored the possibility of a loan arrangement as part of any deal for Sesko. Hojlund has already featured in two of United’s four pre-season matches, scoring in their 4-1 victory over Bournemouth. However, the potential signing of a new striker could limit his playing time.
Leipzig Confirms Interest in Sesko
Sesko’s absence from RB Leipzig’s recent pre-season friendly against Atalanta has fueled speculation regarding his imminent transfer. The striker has reportedly informed his teammates about his decision to leave the club. Marcel Schafer, Leipzig’s managing director for sport, acknowledged that multiple clubs have expressed strong interest in Sesko, stating, “We won’t go into detail on that but when I say that several clubs have shown strong interest and have made approaches, it’s obvious what has happened.”
In addition to Sesko, Newcastle is also pursuing Yoane Wissa from Brentford. Wissa was not included in Brentford’s squad for their friendly against QPR as he seeks a transfer. Newcastle’s earlier bid of £25 million for Wissa was rejected, although the player has expressed a desire to join the Magpies.
Newcastle’s Transfer Strategy Under Pressure
Newcastle head coach Eddie Howe has emphasized that the club is focused on securing the best possible talent amid a challenging transfer window. The club’s efforts have been complicated by the desire of some players to leave, as well as missed opportunities with several targets, including Liam Delap, Joao Pedro, Hugo Ekitike, and James Trafford. With Callum Wilson recently joining West Ham, Newcastle’s options are limited, leaving Will Osula as the only alternative to Alexander Isak at the striker position.
“We’re looking for the best players that we can get,” said Howe. “Whatever our target position is, we’re looking for the best, so I see all situations open and available to us.” He acknowledged the challenges of the summer transfer market but expressed confidence in the club’s strategy moving forward.
As the transfer window approaches its closing date, Newcastle remains competitive in its efforts to strengthen the squad while navigating the complexities of player movements and negotiations.
