
EPL Index
·2 agosto 2025
Report: Newcastle beat United in €75m striker race

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·2 agosto 2025
In a twist that may define this summer’s transfer saga, RB Leipzig striker Benjamin Sesko has reportedly opted for a move to Newcastle United, rejecting interest from Manchester United despite the latter’s long-standing pursuit. According to Slovenian daily newspaper DELO, it is Newcastle who have successfully turned Sesko’s head, with talks accelerating over recent days amid growing uncertainty surrounding Alexander Isak’s future.
Manchester United’s need for a centre-forward is urgent and well-documented. After failed bids for Liam Delap and Viktor Gyokeres, Sesko had become their priority target, with reports earlier in the week indicating that Old Trafford was his preferred destination. But Newcastle’s ambition – and perhaps a clear role in Eddie Howe’s evolving attack – appears to have shifted the balance.
A £110 million bid from Liverpool for Alexander Isak earlier this week forced Newcastle into action. Though the offer was rejected, the Magpies are clearly planning for possible change, and Sesko fits their mould – young, mobile, and potent in front of goal.
Securing Sesko would certainly ensure continuity in the forward line, with a player who not only thrives as a lone striker but offers tactical flexibility in a pressing system.
RB Leipzig, having failed to qualify for European football this season, are willing to part with Sesko but are demanding €75 million (£65.4 million) for the 21-year-old. Arsenal also explored a deal but withdrew due to the cost, leaving the stage to United and Newcastle.
Sesko, who scored 13 goals in the Bundesliga last season and has 39 in 87 games since joining Leipzig, is one of Europe’s most highly-rated young forwards. For Manchester United, losing out on him represents yet another frustrating moment in a summer defined by near-misses.
Manchester United have already approached Aston Villa for Ollie Watkins, but their enquiry was swiftly rebuffed with Villa adamant the 29-year-old is not for sale. The Red Devils now face dwindling options in the striker market as their Premier League rivals continue to act decisively.
Photo IMAGO
Sesko’s decision to join Newcastle underlines a shift in power dynamics. The pull of St James’ Park – and Champions League ambition – is proving irresistible for some of Europe’s brightest talents, even at the expense of Old Trafford’s historic allure.
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