David Ornstein: Newcastle United Close in on £67.5m Striker Signing

Newcastle Make Bold Statement with Improved Sesko Bid

Newcastle United have shown their intent in the transfer market once again, submitting an improved offer for RB Leipzig striker Benjamin Sesko. As reported by The Athletic’s David Ornstein, the Premier League club have raised their initial €75 million offer with €5 million in add-ons to a minimum of €80 million.

The Magpies’ move comes amidst strong interest from Manchester United, though no formal bid has yet been received from Old Trafford. Importantly, the figures Manchester United are currently willing to pay remain below Newcastle’s offer, putting Eddie Howe’s side in a commanding position as of now.

“Newcastle have a long-standing interest in the 22-year-old forward,” Ornstein writes, and with Alexander Isak’s future hanging in the balance, the Slovenian is increasingly seen as the heir apparent at St James’ Park.

Sesko’s form and potential remain attractive

Although Benjamin Sesko didn’t quite replicate his most explosive form last season, he still managed 21 goals in all competitions. His return of 13 Bundesliga goals was one fewer than the previous campaign, despite playing nearly 900 additional minutes. As The Athletic noted, “consistency was still an issue for Sesko,” but his flashes of brilliance — including goals against Bayern Munich — remind us why he’s a coveted asset.

In 87 appearances for Leipzig, the former RB Salzburg striker has scored 39 goals and provided eight assists. His 16 goals in 41 appearances for Slovenia add further weight to his credentials.

Crucially, Leipzig are in no rush to sell. The German side are holding firm on valuation and are under no financial pressure, having extended Sesko’s contract until 2029. That deal is believed to include a gentleman’s agreement allowing an exit for the right project, but the club remain steadfast: “Leipzig have no intention of settling for a fee below their expectations.”

Isak’s situation directly shapes Newcastle’s urgency

The timing of this push is not coincidental. Alexander Isak’s situation continues to evolve. The Sweden international has been training at former club Real Sociedad while Howe’s squad are in Asia, signalling a likely departure. Ornstein reveals that “Liverpool had a formal £110m bid for Isak rejected on Friday” but remain heavily interested, having floated a possible £120m deal last month.

This potential outgoing is perhaps the strongest factor behind Newcastle’s drive for Sesko. They are determined not to be caught short if Isak moves on.

Why others fell away from the race

Other Premier League giants had previously tracked Sesko, but most have since turned their focus elsewhere. Arsenal opted for Viktor Gyokeres in a €63.5m plus €10m deal, while Chelsea brought in Liam Delap and Joao Pedro. Manchester United still have Sesko in their sights, but their hesitation has created an opening for Newcastle to strike decisively.

Our View – EPL Index AnalysisFrom a Newcastle United fan’s perspective

This is the kind of aggressive, no-nonsense move fans at St James’ Park have been dreaming of since the takeover. Benjamin Sesko might not be the finished product, but when was the last time Newcastle were seriously in pole position for a 22-year-old with the potential to lead a top club’s line for a decade?

Even if Isak stays, the ambition shown in going after a player like Sesko shows that Newcastle are not content with just participating in Europe — they’re building something. “The figures they have indicated a willingness to pay are lower than those of Newcastle,” wrote Ornstein of Manchester United’s stance. That line alone should get Geordie hearts racing.

And if Isak does leave? Sesko offers pace, physicality and a killer instinct that Eddie Howe can mould into something dangerous. He’s also proven on the international stage and has tasted Champions League football. The slight inconsistency? That can be fixed. The raw tools? They’re world-class.

It’s time for Newcastle to start winning these battles in the transfer market. And from the looks of it, we’re finally doing just that.