Manchester United have entered a heated bidding war with Newcastle United for RB Leipzig striker Benjamin Sesko, with both Premier League clubs submitting formal offers totaling over £80 million. The 22-year-old Slovenian international has agreed personal terms with both clubs, though sources indicate he is leaning towards a move to Old Trafford.
Manchester United submitted a bid just under £74 million for Sesko, while one source told Sky Sports News the striker is leaning towards United despite Newcastle’s higher financial package. The Red Devils have since improved their offer to approximately €80 million as a fixed fee plus add-ons, up from their previous €75 million plus €10 million proposal.
Newcastle’s Aggressive Pursuit
Newcastle have made multiple attempts to secure Sesko’s signature, demonstrating their determination to land the coveted striker. Their initial formal offer was worth €75 million (£65.5 million) plus €5 million in add-ons, though discussions continue over payment terms.
Newcastle subsequently upped their bid to £69.7 million as a fixed fee plus add-ons, while some reports suggest the Magpies have made a whopping €90 million bid to Leipzig and have told Sesko they are ready to pay whatever it takes to get his green light.
The Tyneside club’s urgency stems from uncertainty surrounding Alexander Isak’s future, with Newcastle viewing Sesko as a potential replacement should their Swedish striker depart. Newcastle will only let Isak leave St James’ Park if they can bring in a ready-made replacement.
Manchester United’s Strategic Approach
United’s pursuit has been more measured but equally determined. Manchester United can buy without having to sell first, giving them flexibility in negotiations despite operating with budget constraints compared to Newcastle’s more aggressive financial approach.
RB Leipzig striker Benjamin Sesko has emerged as United’s top target with the club holding initial talks over conditions of a deal. The striker’s preference for United over Newcastle could prove decisive despite the Magpies offering superior financial terms.
Player Preference and Current Status
Both clubs have agreed personal terms with Sesko, placing the decision in the hands of Leipzig and the player himself. Sesko was absent from RB Leipzig’s pre-season friendly loss to Atalanta on Saturday due to his expected departure from the club.
The 22-year-old striker has reportedly informed his Leipzig teammates of his intention to leave, with Sesko’s agent traveling to Leipzig on Saturday night for discussions about finalizing his departure.
Leipzig’s Position and Valuation
RB Leipzig find themselves in a strong negotiating position with two Premier League giants competing for their prized asset. Marcel Schafer has not accepted the current offers from either club, holding out for the best possible deal.
Both options are being reviewed by the German club, with Leipzig considering not just the financial packages but also the payment structures and add-on clauses proposed by each suitor.
Chelsea finally unveiled their highly rated Brazilian Wonderkid
Broader Transfer Implications
This transfer saga has wider implications for both English clubs’ summer strategies. For Newcastle, securing Sesko could facilitate Isak’s potential departure to Liverpool or other interested parties, generating significant funds for further squad investment.
For United, landing Sesko would address their striker needs and provide competition for existing forwards. The club’s ability to complete this deal without selling players first gives them operational advantages in negotiations.
Timeline and Next Steps
Currently, there is still no agreement with RB Leipzig despite the improved offers from both clubs. The coming days will prove crucial as Leipzig weighs their options and Sesko makes his final decision between the two attractive Premier League destinations.
The resolution of this transfer battle could set the tone for the final weeks of the summer window, particularly regarding other high-profile striker movements across European football.
