Newcastle United have stepped up their pursuit of RB Leipzig striker Benjamin Sesko with a significantly improved offer, as they attempt to fend off stiff competition from Premier League rivals Manchester United in what is shaping up to be one of the summer’s biggest transfer battles.
According to reliable reports from Sky Germany, the Magpies have submitted a new bid worth £69.7 million (€80 million) as a fixed fee, with additional performance-related bonuses expected to follow. The ambitious move is aimed at securing the services of one of Europe’s most promising young forwards before the start of the 2025/26 Premier League season.
This marks an increase from Newcastle’s previous proposal, which stood at £65.3 million (€75 million) plus £4.36 million (€5 million) in bonuses. The latest offer shows clear intent from the Tyneside club as they look to accelerate negotiations and bring in a marquee striker to strengthen Eddie Howe’s attacking options.
The need for firepower has become more urgent for Newcastle after the departure of seasoned forward Callum Wilson, whose contract expired at the end of last season. In addition, uncertainty continues to hang over the future of Swedish striker Alexander Isak, who has been heavily linked with a move to Premier League champions Liverpool. Jurgen Klopp’s side reportedly had an initial offer for Isak turned down, but remain keen to secure his signature before the window closes.
This has left Newcastle in a delicate position — they must either hold firm on Isak or move swiftly to land a replacement who can lead their frontline. Their focus has now zeroed in on Benjamin Sesko, a 21-year-old Slovenian international who has enjoyed a meteoric rise in European football and is viewed as one of the top young attacking prospects in the game.
Sesko scored 14 goals in 31 Bundesliga appearances for RB Leipzig last season, and his blend of physicality, pace, and intelligent movement has made him a coveted asset across Europe. At 6ft 5in, his imposing frame and aerial prowess make him a traditional number nine, yet he also possesses the technical skill and versatility to operate in more dynamic roles.
With Newcastle’s interest intensifying, Manchester United remain firmly in the race for his signature. The Red Devils are understood to have held initial talks with RB Leipzig over a potential deal, although they have yet to formalize an offer matching Newcastle’s new valuation. Sources indicate that United’s recruitment team is carefully reviewing the structure of a possible agreement, mindful of their financial commitments under the Premier League’s Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR).
United manager Erik ten Hag has made it clear that signing a striker is a top priority this summer, as the club looks to support Danish youngster Rasmus Højlund and improve goal output in the new campaign. Sesko has emerged as a leading candidate due to his age, profile, and long-term potential.
However, the final decision lies with the player, who has not yet made up his mind on which English club to join. Sesko is said to be weighing his options carefully, and is keen on moving to a club where he can play regularly, develop further, and compete for major honors.
Earlier in the summer, a potential transfer to Arsenal appeared likely, but the move fell through due to disagreements over personal terms and playing time guarantees. That opened the door for other English clubs to make their move, with Newcastle and Manchester United now emerging as the two frontrunners.
RB Leipzig, for their part, are open to selling Sesko but are keen on maximizing value for their star striker. The German club are known for developing and selling talent at the right price, and with two Premier League sides bidding aggressively, they are in a strong negotiating position.
As the bidding war continues, fans of both Newcastle and Manchester United are watching developments closely. For Newcastle, the potential signing of Sesko would signal their readiness to challenge for European qualification once again, while for United, it would mark a strategic investment in their attacking future.
The player’s decision is expected to come soon, with the start of the Premier League season just weeks away and both clubs eager to finalize their squads. With multiple offers on the table and a high-stakes Premier League rivalry brewing in the background, all eyes will be on Benjamin Sesko as he prepares to choose his next destination.
For now, the 21-year-old remains focused on pre-season preparations with Leipzig, but his representatives are actively engaged in discussions with both English clubs. Whether it’s the ambition and financial backing of Newcastle or the global brand and Champions League aspirations of Manchester United that sways his decision, one thing is certain — Benjamin Sesko’s next move will have a major impact on the upcoming Premier League campaign.
