Wow – Huge relieved after many hours as Benjamin Sesko to pick Newcastle gazump Manchester United

The transfer saga surrounding Benjamin Šeško has taken a dramatic turn as Newcastle United formalized their interest with a substantial £65 million bid for the RB Leipzig striker.

The Slovenian international’s sudden omission from Leipzig’s pre-season friendly against Atalanta has only fueled speculation that a major move could be imminent, with the Magpies emerging as serious contenders for his signature.

Newcastle’s pursuit of Šeško represents a bold statement of intent, particularly given the growing uncertainty surrounding Alexander Isak’s future.

The proposed £65 million fee would eclipse the club’s previous transfer record—the £63 million spent to bring Isak himself from Real Sociedad in 2022—underscoring the ambition of the Saudi-backed ownership.

While Manchester United had been considered frontrunners for Šeško’s services in recent weeks, financial constraints at Old Trafford have complicated their ability to compete, leaving Newcastle as the only club to table a concrete offer.

The timing of Leipzig’s decision to exclude Šeško from their matchday squad speaks volumes. Just hours after Newcastle’s bid became public, the 22-year-old was conspicuously absent from the team sheet, intensifying belief that negotiations have reached a critical stage.

Sources close to the player suggest he has already informed teammates of his desire to seek a new challenge this summer, with the Premier League his preferred destination.

For Newcastle, securing Šeško would address multiple strategic objectives. Not only would it provide elite cover should Isak depart, but it would also signal the club’s ability to attract top-tier talent despite missing out on European football this season.

Eddie Howe has made no secret of his desire to add firepower, and Šeško’s profile—a 6’4” forward with explosive pace and a proven eye for goal—aligns perfectly with the manager’s tactical demands.

Manchester United’s fading interest stems from their precarious financial position. Despite initial links to Šeško, their summer spending has been reined in by Profit and Sustainability Regulations (PSR), particularly after acquiring Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo.

The continued presence of high-earning underperformers like Jadon Sancho and Casemiro on the wage bill further limits their flexibility, leaving Newcastle with a clearer path to negotiations.

The ripple effects of this potential transfer extend beyond Tyneside. Liverpool, who have seen their opening bid for Isak rejected, may view Šeško’s potential arrival at Newcastle as a catalyst for renewed discussions.

If the Magpies secure the Slovenian, they could soften their stance on Isak’s £150 million valuation, though club officials have so far maintained that the Swedish striker is not for sale.

For Šeško, the decision ultimately hinges on project appeal and playing time assurances. Newcastle’s pitch emphasizes a central role in Howe’s system, with the opportunity to spearhead an ambitious project.

Manchester United, by contrast, cannot offer the same clarity, given the uncertainty surrounding Ten Hag’s long-term future and the competition for places in their forward line.

As the Premier League season edges closer, the urgency for resolution grows. Newcastle’s proactive approach contrasts sharply with much of their summer business, which has been hampered by financial restrictions and failed pursuits.

Landing Šeško would not only address a key need but also reinvigorate a fanbase frustrated by the lack of marquee signings.

The coming days will prove decisive. Leipzig’s willingness to negotiate, Šeško’s personal terms, and the potential domino effect on Isak’s future all remain fluid variables.

One thing, however, is certain: Newcastle have made their move, and the transfer market has taken notice.