Newcastle United want to learn Benjamin Sesko's preferred summer transfer within the next 24 hours after holding fresh talks on Sunday, according to reports. The RB Leipzig striker is set to decide whether he wants to join Newcastle or Premier League rivals Manchester United after becoming both clubs' priority target.
Leipzig have already rejected a formal bid from the Magpies, who tried to catch United off guard by offering a £70million package at the weekend. The Bundesliga outfit were not satisfied with the payment structure, but negotiations likely would not take long if Sesko opts for St. James' Park.
From a sporting standpoint, Newcastle potentially represents the more attractive option, given there is Champions League football on offer this season.
Sesko could also shoulder the responsibility of replacing Alexander Isak as Eddie Howe's poster boy, should the Swedish striker force his Liverpool move through.
United boast unmatched tradition and history, though, and have shown a clear ambition to fast-track Ruben Amorim's project already this summer.
Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo both snubbed Newcastle to seal moves to M16 for a combined £133.5m.
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So it is only natural that there are fears on Tyneside that lightning could strike for a third time in a summer where several targets have chosen alternative destinations.
According to the Daily Mail, Newcastle spoke to Sesko's representatives on Sunday and would like to know where his heart lies within the next 24 hours.
The North East side are not expected to submit an improved bid while the 22-year-old's preference is unclear.
And the report adds that there is a fear that the longer they wait to hear Sesko's decision, the more likely he is holding out for United to gather the funds to make their move.
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With the Premier League season kicking off in less than two weeks, Newcastle want sufficient time to pursue alternatives if the Slovenian is unattainable.
It's claimed that the Magpies retain hope of a deal, though, and have maintained contact with Leipzig over the structure of their £70m approach.
Newcastle are simultaneously attempting to lure Yoane Wissa from Brentford, who have rejected two offers as they hold out for £50m.
The last bid was reportedly worth a guaranteed £30m plus £5m in add-ons, but Brentford are reluctant to sell after losing Mbeumo to United.