Newcastle United transfer news and rumours including the latest on top striker target Benjamin Sesko
Newcastle United target Benjamin Sesko
Newcastle United target Benjamin Sesko(Image: Photo by Maja Hitij/Getty Images)
RB Leipzig have issued an update on striker Benjamin Sesko after transfer bids from both Newcastle United and Manchester United.
The Magpies submitted their second official offer to the Bundesliga club on Monday evening in an attempt to steal a march on their rivals for the Slovenia international’s signature. Widespread reports suggest Newcastle’s improved bid is worth €80m, plus a further €10m in potential add-ons.
However, Manchester United have now stepped up their interest with a bid of their own. According to The Athletic, the Red Devils are willing to pay €75m plus €10m in add-ons, which is slightly less than Newcastle’s €90m overall package.
The concern for Newcastle, however, lies in the player’s preference, with growing uncertainty regarding whether Sesko favours a move to Old Trafford over St James’ Park. Reports indicate that the club are seeking clarity on the situation early this week, in order to pursue alternative targets should Sesko opt for a move elsewhere.
Leipzig have now issued an additional update on the striker, who was absent from their recent friendly against Serie A side Atalanta. In a statement released on Tuesday, the Bundesliga club confirmed that Sesko has not been training with his teammates and is instead completing individual work.
Leipzig are set to face Ligue 1 side Lens in another friendly this weekend, before kicking off their competitive campaign in the DFB-Pokal first round against SV Sandhausen seven days later. There will undoubtedly be hope that Sesko’s future is resolved by then, with both Newcastle and Manchester United still awaiting the 22-year-old’s final decision.
For Newcastle, a swift resolution is increasingly important due to lingering doubts over Alexander Isak’s long-term future on Tyneside. The Sweden international did not take part in the club’s pre-season tour of Asia amid ongoing interest from Liverpool, instead training at his former club Real Sociedad’s facilities as he recovers from a thigh injury.
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