Benjamin Sesko transfer bombshell drops and it changes everything for Man Utd and Newcastle

The Benjamin Sesko saga has taken a dramatic new turn, potentially reshaping the transfer strategies of both Manchester United and Newcastle United. The RB Leipzig striker, long considered a rising star in European football, is now at the center of an intense tug-of-war between two Premier League heavyweights.

Leipzig had reportedly set a firm price tag of €75 million (£64.8 million) for the 21-year-old Slovenian forward, a figure that initially seemed to give Manchester United the edge. The Red Devils had been tracking Sesko for months, with internal talks positioning him as a vital piece in their long-term attacking rebuild under Ruben Amorim.

Arsenal, once in the frame for Sesko, turned their attention elsewhere and secured Viktor Gyökeres from Sporting CP for £55 million, effectively leaving the race open for United and Newcastle. This shift seemed to clear the path for United — until a surprising twist emerged.

According to highly regarded journalist Sacha Tavolieri, Newcastle have now surged ahead in the race. The Magpies reportedly increased their offer of personal terms to Sesko, which prompted the striker to give what Tavolieri described as the “green light” to Newcastle. Talks between the clubs are said to be accelerating, with the fee expected to hover around €90 million.

Supporting this claim, both Keith Downie (Sky Sports) and David Ornstein (The Athletic) report that Newcastle have submitted a formal bid of £65.5 million, plus an additional £4.3 million in performance-based bonuses. These reports lend credibility to the notion that Newcastle are no longer simply contenders—they may now be frontrunners.

Adding to the intrigue, Slovenian media outlet Delo published a report claiming Sesko has already chosen Newcastle as his preferred destination, citing their Champions League qualification and a guaranteed starting role. If true, it would represent a major coup for Eddie Howe and a frustrating blow to Manchester United’s ambitions.

However, not all sources are in agreement. Craig Hope of the Daily Mail added nuance to the story, stating that while Newcastle have presented their full package to Sesko, the player has not yet made a definitive decision. According to Hope, Manchester United are still “at the table,” and the final verdict lies solely with Sesko.

The ongoing situation is also linked to the uncertainty surrounding Alexander Isak. The Newcastle forward reportedly wants a move to Liverpool, who had a £120 million bid rejected by the Magpies. That development may have intensified Newcastle’s pursuit of Sesko, who could be seen as the long-term successor to Isak if he eventually departs.

In terms of business so far, Newcastle have had a relatively quiet window. They’ve signed Anthony Elanga from Nottingham Forest for £55 million and secured goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale on loan. A big-money signing like Sesko would signal a new gear in their summer plans.

Meanwhile, Manchester United have already spent over £130 million on Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo, and young star Diego Leon. But missing out on Sesko—after being considered favorites—would be a significant blow and could push the Red Devils to make a late, aggressive move in the market.

With both clubs desperate to add firepower before the season kicks off, all eyes are now on Sesko. The next 72 hours could be pivotal. His decision will not only determine where he plays next season but may also trigger a domino effect across the Premier League striker market.

Whatever the outcome, one thing is clear—Benjamin Sesko holds the cards, and his next move will shake up English football.