Report: Sources close to Benjamin Sesko talks name most likely destination out of Newcastle and Man United

The race to sign RB Leipzig striker Benjamin Šeško has intensified, with Newcastle United and Manchester United locked in a high-stakes battle for the Slovenian international’s signature.

As the summer transfer window heats up, both Premier League clubs are pushing hard to secure the 21-year-old forward, but sources close to negotiations suggest the Magpies currently hold the edge.

For Newcastle, this potential signing represents more than just another addition to the squad—it’s a crucial step in addressing their glaring need for attacking reinforcements.

After missing out on several key targets earlier in the window, including Liam Delap, João Pedro, Bryan Mbeumo, and Hugo Ekitike, the pressure is mounting on Eddie Howe’s side to deliver a marquee striker.

The fear among supporters is palpable, especially with Manchester United lurking as serious competitors. However, according to The Telegraph, insiders familiar with the discussions indicate that Newcastle are presently in a stronger position to finalize the deal.

Šeško, who has been on Newcastle’s radar since 2022, fits the profile of the dynamic, young forward the club has been seeking. His impressive performances for RB Leipzig—including a standout season in the Bundesliga—have only heightened his appeal.

Yet, while optimism grows on Tyneside, there is no guarantee the deal will cross the line. Manchester United’s financial muscle and prestige mean they could still hijack the move, particularly if they accelerate their own negotiations in the coming days.

Beyond the threat posed by their Premier League rivals, Newcastle face another pressing concern: timing. The club’s hierarchy is acutely aware that selling Alexander Isak before securing a replacement could prove disastrous.

Once Isak’s departure is confirmed, selling clubs will inevitably inflate their asking prices, knowing Newcastle suddenly have both the funds and the desperation to spend.

This precarious situation demands swift, decisive action—something that has not always been a hallmark of the Magpies’ recent transfer strategy.

The parallels to their failed pursuit of Hugo Ekitike are hard to ignore. Back then, Newcastle were prepared to make a significant financial commitment, only for the deal to collapse at the last minute. This time, they cannot afford a repeat.

Securing Šeško before offloading Isak would not only stabilize their attack but also prevent the kind of inflated fees that could derail their summer plans.

For Manchester United, the stakes are equally high. With Erik ten Hag eager to add firepower to his squad, Šeško’s blend of physicality, technical skill, and goal-scoring instinct makes him an ideal target.

The Red Devils’ interest is serious, and if they decide to accelerate their approach, Newcastle’s current advantage could quickly evaporate.

As it stands, the momentum appears to be with Newcastle, but in the volatile world of transfer negotiations, that can change in an instant. The coming days will be critical.

Will the Magpies finally land their long-term target, or will Manchester United swoop in at the last moment? One thing is certain: Benjamin Šeško’s next destination could define both clubs’ seasons—and time is running out to get it done.