Manchester United Ahead of Newcastle in Race for Sesko? RB Leipzig Star Striker Drawing Strong Interest: Report
RB Leipzig forward Benjamin Sesko is reportedly leaning towards a transfer to Manchester United rather than Newcastle, at a time when the Magpies may lose their lead striker Alexander Isak due to interest from Liverpool.
Benjamin Sesko, the prolific striker from RB Leipzig, is said to have expressed his preference to join Manchester United over Newcastle United this summer, as both English clubs look set to compete for his signature.
With Arsenal shifting their focus to signing Viktor Gyökeres instead, the battle for Sesko has been narrowed down to two main contenders—United and Newcastle—setting up an intense transfer showdown.
Newcastle’s plans for the upcoming campaign have been disrupted after reports emerged that key forward Alexander Isak is open to leaving the club, following interest from Premier League title-holders Liverpool.
Isak, who netted 23 goals in the Premier League last season, has been left out of Newcastle’s pre-season tour of Asia, further fueling speculation about his future with the club.
In preparation for a possible exit, Newcastle have begun scouting for striker options. Their shortlist reportedly includes Chelsea’s Nicolas Jackson, Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins, and Brighton’s Yoane Wissa. However, Benjamin Sesko remains their top priority if Isak makes an exit.
As per The Athletic, Newcastle have maintained a long-term interest in the 22-year-old Leipzig star and view him as the ideal replacement for Isak.
Champions League Qualification Not Enough to Lure Sesko
One advantage Newcastle hold in this pursuit is their qualification for the UEFA Champions League. The Magpies are set to play in Europe’s premier club competition next season, while Manchester United—now led by newly appointed manager Ruben Amorim—will not feature in any European tournament.
Even so, reports suggest Sesko still prefers a move to Old Trafford. German journalist Guido Schäfer has claimed that the player has already communicated his desire to sign with Manchester United rather than Newcastle.
This perspective was supported by Sky Sports reporter Florian Plettenberg, who mentioned that United had previously attempted to acquire Sesko last year. Now, the Red Devils are reportedly ready to return to the negotiating table and meet the required conditions to land the promising striker.
Several top clubs have shown interest in Benjamin Sesko, though no formal negotiations have yet begun between RB Leipzig and any of the suitors.
