Newcastle gives ultimatum to Sesko after huge rejected offer as transfer move drags on

Newcastle United have drawn a line in the sand regarding their pursuit of Benjamin Šeško, demanding a definitive answer from the Slovenian striker within the next 48 hours as the protracted transfer saga enters its decisive phase.

The Magpies’ hierarchy, while confident about reaching terms with RB Leipzig, have grown weary of the ongoing negotiations and want clarity before shifting their attention to alternative targets.

The urgency comes on the heels of Newcastle’s rejected club-record bid – a substantial €75 million (£65 million) upfront with an additional €5 million (£4.3 million) in performance-related add-ons.

Leipzig’s firm stance reflects their valuation, holding out for at least £70 million guaranteed while insisting on a future sell-on clause.

This mirrors the demands that ultimately deterred Arsenal earlier in the window, prompting the Gunners to pivot toward Viktor Gyökeres instead.

Šeško’s camp has already signaled his readiness for a new challenge, with the 22-year-old informing Leipzig teammates of his anticipated departure.

His prolific return of 21 goals across all competitions last season – bringing his two-year tally to 39 in 87 appearances – has made him one of Europe’s most coveted young forwards.

However, Newcastle now face stiff competition from Manchester United, who remain firmly in the race despite yet to formalize their interest with an official bid.

United’s new manager, Ruben Amorim, views Šeško as the ideal focal point for his revamped attack, potentially pairing him with Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha.

Reports suggest the Red Devils explored including Rasmus Højlund as part of the deal, but the Danish striker’s reluctance to leave Old Trafford has complicated matters.

United may still offload Højlund separately, with a potential asking price set between £30-42 million – a significant markdown from the £72 million paid to Atalanta just last summer.

For Newcastle, securing Šeško could have cascading implications, most notably regarding Alexander Isak’s future. The Swedish talisman remains a prime target for Liverpool, who saw a £110 million bid rebuffed last week.

Should Šeško arrive on Tyneside, Newcastle may soften their stance on Isak, though they continue to value their star striker at an eye-watering £150 million – more than double the £63 million they paid Real Sociedad in 2022.

The Šeško pursuit underscores Newcastle’s broader transfer frustrations this summer. A growing list of missed targets includes defender Dean Huijsen (Real Madrid), forwards João Pedro and Liam Delap (both Chelsea), and winger Bryan Mbeumo (Manchester United).

Liverpool’s late hijacking of Hugo Ekitike’s proposed move and James Trafford’s decision to rejoin Manchester City further compounded their challenges, leaving Anthony Elanga’s £55 million arrival from Nottingham Forest as their only permanent signing thus far.

As the clock ticks on their self-imposed deadline, Newcastle’s recruitment team faces mounting pressure.

Successfully landing Šeško would not only address their immediate need for attacking reinforcement but also send a defiant message about their ability to compete for elite talent despite recent setbacks.

Failure, however, risks leaving Eddie Howe’s squad perilously short of firepower as they prepare for a demanding campaign across multiple fronts.

The coming days will reveal whether Šeško views St James’ Park as the ideal stage for his burgeoning career or if Manchester United’s allure proves too strong.

For Newcastle, the outcome could define their summer and shape their ambitions for the season ahead. One thing is certain – in the high-stakes game of transfer poker, the Magpies are refusing to fold quietly.