Newcastle make improved Benjamin Sesko offer amid transfer battle with Man Utd after PSR juggle
Newcastle United have dramatically escalated their pursuit of Benjamin Šeško, submitting a formidable €80 million (£69.7m) bid with an additional €10m (£8.7m) in performance-related add-ons for the RB Leipzig striker.
This aggressive move places the Magpies in a commanding position against Manchester United in what has developed into one of the summer’s most intriguing transfer battles.
Sources indicate Newcastle have received positive signals that the Slovenian international is “willing to sign,” with the club hopeful of finalizing personal terms within the next 24 hours.
The 22-year-old forward represents a calculated gamble for both Premier League suitors. Šeško’s physical attributes – his blistering pace, aerial dominance, and instinctive finishing make him an archetypal modern striker capable of stretching defenses.
Yet as Bundesliga expert Rune Gjerulff notes, aspects of his link-up play require refinement compared to established Premier League operators like Kai Havertz.
What sets Šeško apart is his demonstrable capacity for growth; his 39-goal return across 87 Leipzig appearances came during a turbulent campaign that saw the German club change managers mid-season.
Manchester United’s interest adds compelling complexity to the negotiations. The Red Devils had initially explored moves for Ollie Watkins before prioritizing Šeško, with Fabrizio Romano confirming their readiness to table a competing bid should the player favor Old Trafford.
This creates a fascinating dilemma for the Slovenian – join Newcastle’s upwardly mobile project with guaranteed starting status or opt for United’s global stature amid their rebuilding phase under Ruben Amorim.
Alan Shearer’s tempered enthusiasm reflects the transfer’s inherent risk-reward dynamic. While acknowledging Šeško’s raw talent, Newcastle’s record goalscorer cautioned about the adaptation period required for any striker transitioning to English football.
His assessment underscores why both clubs view this as more than a simple talent acquisition – it’s a strategic investment in a player whose prime years align perfectly with their respective project timelines.
From a tactical perspective, Šeško’s potential arrival at St James’ Park would offer Eddie Howe the vertical threat Alexander Isak provided, albeit with greater physicality in duels.
His ability to exploit channels and finish first-time would complement Newcastle’s existing creative forces like Anthony Gordon and Harvey Barnes.
For United, his profile presents Amorim with the mobile focal point his preferred system demands, potentially unlocking Bruno Fernandes’ creative potential behind him.
The financial mechanics reveal why Leipzig remain reluctant sellers. Šeško’s contract situation – he’s tied to the German club until 2028 – empowers them to demand premium fees.
Newcastle’s structured payment proposal demonstrates their financial pragmatism, likely including Champions League qualification triggers and appearance-based installments to manage FFP considerations.
Should the deal progress, it would represent the second-most expensive signing in Newcastle’s history, signaling their ambition to compete at European football’s highest level.
As the saga enters its decisive phase, several factors favor Newcastle. Their ability to offer immediate Champions League football and a clear pathway to becoming the offensive centerpiece may outweigh United’s historical allure.
However, Amorim’s reputation for developing young talent could prove persuasive. What’s undeniable is that Šeško’s decision will send ripples through the transfer market – potentially accelerating Isak’s proposed move to Liverpool or forcing United to revisit their interest in Watkins.
The coming days will test Newcastle’s newfound negotiating prowess. Having already missed out on several targets this window, securing Šeško’s signature would represent a statement of intent that could galvanize their entire summer business.
For the player himself, this crossroads moment offers the chance to become the latest Bundesliga export to take the Premier League by storm – provided he selects the environment best suited to unlocking his undoubted potential.