Report: Benjamin Sesko rejects Manchester United for Newcastle in bombshell U-turn
Newcastle United Pull Off Stunning Coup as Benjamin Šeško Chooses Tyneside Over Manchester
In a dramatic twist that has sent shockwaves through the transfer market, Slovenian sensation Benjamin Šeško appears to have rejected overtures from Manchester United in favor of joining Newcastle United’s ambitious project.
Reports emerging from his homeland suggest the 21-year-old striker has been convinced by the Magpies’ long-term vision, delivering a significant boost to Eddie Howe’s squad rebuild amid the ongoing uncertainty surrounding Alexander Isak’s future.
The development marks a remarkable turnaround in what had become an increasingly complex pursuit. Just days ago, Manchester United seemed poised to win the race for the RB Leipzig forward, with Newcastle’s hierarchy reportedly shifting focus to alternative targets.
However, Slovenian outlet Delo now claims Šeško’s representatives have given the green light to negotiations with Newcastle after being presented with a compelling blueprint for his development at St James’ Park.
The proposed £65 million deal would eclipse the club’s current transfer record – the £63 million paid for Isak in 2022 – in a move that carries both symbolic and practical significance.
Šeško’s potential arrival comes at a pivotal moment for Newcastle, who find themselves navigating turbulent waters regarding their current Swedish talisman.
Liverpool’s £110 million opening bid for Isak was promptly rejected on Friday, but the striker’s conspicuous absence from the club’s pre-season tour of Asia – instead training with former side Real Sociedad – has created an air of inevitability about his departure.
While Newcastle’s Saudi-backed ownership remains determined to retain their prized asset, the pursuit of Šeško suggests contingency plans are being activated with increasing urgency.
The Slovenian international’s decision, if confirmed, represents a major coup for Newcastle’s recruitment team.
At 6’4″ with explosive pace and technical refinement, Šeško fits the profile of modern striker Howe covets – capable of leading the line physically while offering the mobility to stretch defenses.
His 21-goal haul for Leipzig last season, including 13 in the Bundesliga, showcased his rapid development since arriving from Red Bull Salzburg.
Perhaps more importantly, his age and ceiling align perfectly with Newcastle’s model of acquiring assets who can appreciate in value.
For Manchester United, the apparent snub raises fresh questions about their pulling power in a transformed transfer landscape.
Despite offering Champions League football and greater historical prestige, Erik ten Hag’s side have been outmaneuvered by Newcastle’s persuasive pitch – one that presumably emphasized guaranteed playing time and a central role in the club’s upward trajectory.
The Red Devils must now accelerate their pursuit of alternative targets, with Bologna’s Joshua Zirkzee and Lille’s Jonathan David among potential options.
The domino effect of this potential transfer could reshape both clubs’ summers. Newcastle would secure their marquee attacking signing while maintaining negotiating leverage over Isak’s future – either keeping two elite forwards or commanding an even higher fee from Liverpool.
Leipzig, having missed European qualification, appear willing sellers at the right price, though the proposed £65 million valuation may yet be tested during final negotiations.
As news of Šeško’s apparent preference spread, Newcastle supporters flooded social media with celebratory reactions, though club sources have urged caution until formal agreements are reached.
The coming days promise heightened activity on Tyneside, with medicals and contract details still to be finalized.
Should the deal cross the line, it would mark a statement of intent from Newcastle – proof they can outmuscle traditional giants for Europe’s most coveted young talent while navigating Financial Fair Play constraints.
For Šeško, the choice represents a calculated gamble. While Manchester United offer greater immediate European pedigree, Newcastle’s project provides a clearer pathway to stardom – the chance to become the focal point of a team on the rise rather than another piece in a perpetual rebuild.
His potential partnership with Anthony Gordon and Harvey Barnes could give Newcastle one of the Premier League’s most dynamic young attacks, blending speed, power, and technical quality.
As the football world awaits official confirmation, one thing is certain: Newcastle’s summer just took a thrilling turn. In securing (or nearing) Šeško’s signature, they’ve not only addressed a pressing need but demonstrated their growing appeal to football’s next generation of stars.
The message to rivals is clear – Saudi-backed or not, this is a club determined to write its own history rather than feed others’ ambitions.