Whilst they continue to push for Benjamin Sesko, Newcastle United have also reportedly launched a fresh approach to sign an impressive Serie A defender for Eddie Howe.
Newcastle submit second Sesko bid
The Magpies and PIF have needed more patience than ever this summer, but they're finally taking key steps towards the attacking addition that they've been craving. As reported by The Athletic's David Ornstein, Newcastle have now submitted a second bid worth as much as €80m (£70m) before add-ons to sign Sesko after positive talks took place between Leipzig, those at St James' Park and the forward.
Manchester United's interest ensures that the deal is far from guaranteed, but Newcastle remain in pole position after submitting two offers before the Red Devils have even tabled an opening bid.
Having missed out on Joao Pedro, Liam Delap, Bryan Mbeumo, James Trafford and Hugo Ekitike, Sesko's arrival would likely come as a relief more than anything for Newcastle, who have endured a nightmare summer.
What would, of course, make things even better is if Alexander Isak also stays put. On that front, the most recent reports indicated that Liverpool will not be submitting another offer after seeing their £110m bid turned down and the Swede has since returned to training.
League stats 24/25 (via FBref) Sesko Isak
Minutes 2,380 2,756
Goals 13 23
Assists 5 6
Expected Goals 10 20.3
Whether that situation depends on Sesko's decision remains to be seen, but there is of course a scenario which sees Howe form an impressive partnership between Isak and the towering forward this season.
Alexander-Isak-2
Meanwhile, as their striker saga rumbles on, Newcastle are also reportedly chasing a reinforcement at the opposite end and have made contact to sign a Serie A star.
Newcastle launch fresh Malick Thiaw approach
According to Corriere dello Sport, as relayed by Sport Witness, Newcastle have now made fresh contact to sign Malick Thiaw from AC Milan, who are demanding €35m (£30m) to sell their centre-back this summer.
Having set their sights on Thiaw earlier this summer, those at St James' Park reportedly renewed their interest in the defender earlier this week as they aim to end what has been a disappointing window with a flourish.
As important as it is that Newcastle get Sesko over the line this month, there's no denying that they still need another centre-back and Thiaw is an ideal candidate.
Described as "strong" by analyst Ben Mattinson in 2023, the Milan man would instantly provide cover at both right-back and at the heart of Howe's defence as Newcastle step into European football once more.