· 6 August 2025, 09:30
Despite having had a bid accepted by RB Leipzig and agreeing on personal terms with Benjamin Sesko, the Slovenian looks set to reject Newcastle United in favour of a move to Old Trafford.
Newcastle were, for all of a few hours, in pole position to sign Benjamin Sesko yesterday after making an improved offer to RB Leipzig for the 22-year-old.
The expectation and hope were short-lived, however, as soon as Manchester United made their move, bidding below what Newcastle had, which to us, just emphasises the fact that they knew they could win the race.
It has always felt like Sesko was waiting for Man United to put their money where their mouth is, but there was hope in and around Newcastle that the Red Devils would have to sell before they could afford to buy such an expensive player.
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As everyone expected, Benjamin Sesko was just waiting for Man United
Our fears have been confirmed today as David Ornstein has now reported for The Athletic that Sesko has chosen Manchester United.
" Manchester United closing in on deal to sign Benjamin Sesko from RB Leipzig. #RBLeipzig accepted €82.5m + €2.5m bid from Newcastle United but 22yo striker wants #MUFC. No club-to-club agreement yet but talks advancing towards conclusion."
Only Newcastle could outbid a club and still lose out on the player. This really has been the worst transfer window ever. We can't really blame the club for many of these things either. There have been times where we have been frustratingly slow to act, that's for sure, but we're shopping in Harrods with a M&S budget (thanks to PSR), and we're carrying an ASDA bag for life. Potential players can see we're new here, and are opting for more established clubs, even if, in the case of Manchester United, they can't offer Champions League football next season.
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What now for Newcastle?
It sounds as though Newcastle have accepted their fate when it comes to Benjamin Sesko, so now it remains to be seen what happens next.
Eddie Howe returned to the training ground today and is expected to have talks with Alexander Isak. After this news, that conversation may now go very differently.
There are perhaps other options out there - Goncalo Ramos was mentioned the other day - but it's looking more and more like Isak will be told he's staying for another year.