Romano reveals ‘private agreement’ for Sesko as Man Utd ‘deal is on’ for Newcastle target

The race to secure RB Leipzig striker Benjamin Šeško has intensified dramatically, with Manchester United and Newcastle United locked in a fierce transfer tussle that could define both clubs’ summer business.

According to transfer specialist Fabrizio Romano, the situation remains fluid, with each Premier League side employing distinct strategies to land one of Europe’s most coveted young forwards.

Manchester United’s pursuit forms part of a comprehensive recruitment drive under manager Ruben Amorim, who has already overseen the arrivals of Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo, and teenage prospect Diego Leon.

The Red Devils view Šeško as the potential final piece in their attacking rebuild, though Romano stresses the deal would require significant financial commitment.

Leipzig’s valuation stands between €70-80 million plus performance-related add-ons, a figure that has prompted extensive internal discussions at Old Trafford about the feasibility of such an investment.

Newcastle’s approach contrasts markedly with their rivals. The Magpies have prepared an aggressive contract proposal for the Slovenian international and stand ready to trigger Leipzig’s asking price immediately should Šeško favor a move to Tyneside.

Their Champions League status provides a compelling sporting argument, while the club’s willingness to “go big” reflects their determination to secure elite talent despite financial fair play constraints.

Intriguingly, Šeško’s camp maintains a private understanding with Leipzig that facilitates his departure for certain “special clubs” at the predetermined fee structure.

This gentleman’s agreement has become a critical factor in negotiations, potentially streamlining the process for whichever suitor convinces the 21-year-old to commit.

Manchester United’s recent direct contact with Leipzig officials, including reported face-to-face discussions, indicates their seriousness, though Newcastle’s ability to act decisively keeps them firmly in contention.

The player himself faces a career-defining choice. Manchester United offer the prestige of a global institution undergoing reconstruction under ambitious new leadership, while Newcastle present a project with clearer European football and the promise of centerpiece status in Eddie Howe’s system.

Šeško’s deliberate approach to evaluating his options suggests he recognizes the magnitude of this decision, with neither destination providing an obvious superior choice.

Behind the scenes, personnel play pivotal roles. Christopher Vivell drives Manchester United’s interest internally, leveraging his Bundesliga expertise to navigate the complex negotiations.

Newcastle’s recruitment team, meanwhile, must convince Šeško their vision outweighs the allure of Old Trafford’s brighter spotlight. The coming days promise heightened activity as both clubs attempt to tip the balance in their favor through improved terms or persuasive project outlines.

This transfer saga encapsulates modern football’s competitive dynamics. Elite talent commands premium fees, yet personal preferences and club project credibility increasingly influence outcomes as much as financial muscle.

For Šeško, the decision represents more than a simple career progression—it’s a choice between two distinct footballing philosophies and developmental pathways.

As the bidding war escalates, the broader implications become apparent. Manchester United seek to reassert their dominance in the market after several windows of measured spending, while Newcastle aim to prove their Saudi-backed project can outmaneuver traditional powers for world-class talent.

The resolution of this chase will send ripples through the transfer market, potentially determining each club’s ability to attract further targets before the season commences.

What remains undeniable is Šeško’s skyrocketing value in a striker-depleted market. His combination of physical presence, technical refinement, and room for growth make him precisely the profile both clubs desperately need.

Whether he ultimately chooses the bright lights of Manchester or the ambitious project on Tyneside, one of these clubs is about to secure a potential decade-long solution to their attacking requirements.

The coming week promises decisive developments in a transfer battle that has become a litmus test for both clubs’ aspirations.