The very latest Man Utd transfer news as they continue to work on a deal for RB Leipzig's Benjamin Sesko.
Benjamin Sesko is wanted by both Manchester United and Newcastle.
Benjamin Sesko is wanted by both Manchester United and Newcastle.
(Image: Ulrik Pedersen/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
RB Leipzig are keeping close watch on their summer departures, as they aim to avoid weakening their squad too much ahead of the new season - as per the latest reports.
Benjamin Sesko looks increasingly likely to leave the Bundesliga club in the coming weeks. The 22-year-old striker was absent from Leipzig's squad for their pre-season friendly against Atalanta today, with a move expected to be finalised by the end of the month.
Manchester United and Newcastle have both led the race for Sesko's signature, after Arsenal opted to sign Viktor Gyokeres instead. Ruben Amorim's side are firmly focused on bringing in a new No.9, with Rasmus Hojlund mooted to depart despite publicly stating his desire to stay and fight for his place.
No final decision has been made over Sesko's next destination, though Newcastle are now reportedly prepared to meet Leipzig's valuation. United, meanwhile, remain in active contact with the German club.
Sesko is not the only Leipzig name linked with a summer move. Xavi Simons has attracted attention from Chelsea, while newly-promoted Sunderland are claimed to have added Lois Openda to their shortlist.
Florian Plettenberg reported the Black Cats' interest in Openda - but also outlined Leipzig's hesitation to allow too many players to leave.
"Sunderland have added Lois Openda to their shortlist for this summer transfer window," he wrote on X.
"However, it is questionable whether RB Leipzig would be willing to let the 25 y/o striker leave as well, if they sell both Xavi Simons and Benjamin Sesko."
Although reports linking the Tyne and Wear-based club with Openda have been quickly shut down by Sky Sports' Keith Downie, it has still raised questions regarding Leipzig's plans for departing players.
Despite scope for a sizable financial boost - with Sesko and Simons tipped to bring in over £100million combined - Leipzig are wary of a summer exodus that could leave them without key attacking options.
The German club's stance may influence the timing of any deal, particularly from United's side, who may now look to accelerate talks amid the growing uncertainty.
Sesko;s fee could eclipse £70million after Newcastle reportedly submitted an opening bid on Saturday, according to ChronicleLive and other publications.
Speaking earlier this summer, Sesko's agent revealed the striker's next step would depend on finding "a special project with a special coach." Whether it's United or Newcastle, it's now likely to come down to which club can best sell their vision to the 41-cap Slovenia international.
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