Newcastle United appear to be closing in on the signing of RB Leipzig striker Benjamin Sesko, with reports emerging that the 22-year-old has reached an agreement in principle over a five-year contract at St James’ Park. The Slovenian international, nicknamed “The Beast” for his powerful frame and commanding 6ft 5in presence, is one of Europe’s most sought-after young strikers.
According to Italian journalist Nicola Schira, personal terms have been agreed, and Newcastle are now preparing to enter negotiations with Leipzig over a transfer fee.
🚨 Newcastle and Man Utd in race to sign Benjamin Sesko!
— PureFootball (@PureFootball_co) July 28, 2025
💰 €70-80M + add-ons on the table.
Decision expected this week 👀 #MUFC #NUFC #Sesko pic.twitter.com/1MEf1W0uTA
Leipzig’s Demands Softening
RB Leipzig had initially hoped to raise significant funds from Sesko's departure, aiming for his €80m (£70m) release clause. However, German insider Christian Falk now claims that Leipzig would be willing to accept a slightly reduced fee in the region of €70m (£61m). This shift in stance could accelerate negotiations and make a deal more accessible for Newcastle.
🚨⚪️⚫️ Understand Newcastle are ready to present their project to Benjamin Šeško as they want to go big!
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) July 24, 2025
Proposal to the player also being prepared as #NUFC see Šeško as ideal striker in case Isak leaves, as he wants to.
As revealed earlier, Newcastle are very keen on Šeško. pic.twitter.com/DtWo3mIjkl
Manchester United Still Lurking
Despite Newcastle's strong position, Manchester United remain in the frame. The Red Devils are yet to formally approach Leipzig, but reports suggest they continue to monitor the situation closely. Given United’s ongoing search for a reliable No.9 to suit Ruben Amorim’s 3-4-2-1 system, Sesko remains on their radar.
There’s also talk of a “gentleman’s agreement” which could give certain clubs – possibly including United – a slight advantage in negotiations. Still, nothing concrete has emerged from Old Trafford, leaving the door open for Newcastle to seal the deal.
📹🚨🗣️| Fabrizio Romano on Benjamin Sekso and Manchester United:
— UtdJoshua (@UtdJoshua03) July 27, 2025
“Next week will be important for the future of Benjamin Sesko. Newcastle are going very big with this contract proposal ready for the player and they are also ready to approach Red Bull Leipzig.
Manchester United… pic.twitter.com/QvjyCA97cL
Potential Domino Effect Involving Isak and Liverpool
A successful move for Sesko could have major ripple effects in the Premier League. Newcastle’s leading striker, Alexander Isak, is being heavily linked with a summer switch to Liverpool. If Sesko arrives on Tyneside, it may fast-track Isak’s departure, helping Jurgen Klopp’s side finally land their long-term attacking target.
Rio Ferdinand: Sesko Not the Answer for United
Meanwhile, former United defender Rio Ferdinand has urged his old club to look elsewhere, casting doubt on Sesko's readiness to lead the line at Old Trafford. Citing the youth and inexperience of players like Rasmus Højlund and Joshua Zirkzee, Ferdinand suggested that United need a more established striker, not another project.
Instead, he recommended turning attention to midfield reinforcements – specifically, Brighton’s Carlos Baleba. “If I don’t get a striker, I’d go midfield,” Ferdinand said. “That’s my man. I’d go and break the bank for Baleba.”
Conclusion: Sesko Decision Looming
The race for Benjamin Sesko is heating up fast. Newcastle hold the upper hand with personal terms reportedly agreed, and Leipzig softening on their price. But with Manchester United still in the background, the situation could still take a late twist.
Whatever happens next, Sesko’s decision – expected this week – could reshape not just the summer transfer window, but the attacking outlook of several top Premier League sides.
