Newcastle make improved Sesko transfer offer to move ahead of Man Utd in chase

Newcastle have upped their bid for Benjamin Sesko as they continue to pursue the RB Leipzig striker with the Magpies looking to fend off Manchester United's interest

Newcastle have lodged an improved bid for RB Leipzig's Benjamin Sesko with their latest offer hitting the £70million mark. The German side had rejected their opening bid, which included add-ons.

The Magpies have identified the Slovenian as their top target in attack with Sesko likely being the replacement for Alexander Isak, who is pushing for a move to Liverpool. Newcastle know that Manchester United too are keen on the Leipzig frontman, but are yet to bid.

It puts Eddie Howe's side in pole position currently to land the striker, who has reportedly told his team-mates in Germany that he will be moving on this summer. Whilst United are interested it is thought that currently they would not pay as much as Newcastle - it comes as United have been slammed for missing out on an Arsenal star after Bruno Fernandes let rip at his team-mates.

Positive talks have been held between Newcastle co-owner Jamie Reuben, Leipzig and the 22-year-old striker, as first reported by the Athletic. Sesko is understood to be open to both projects but Leipzig are adamant that they will not sell until their valuation is met.

The Slovenian is among the brightest young forwards in Europe and the Bundesliga outfit want to ensure they get a fee that reflects that. Leipzig are without Champions League football this term but will not sell their top players on the cheap with some of their other leading lights attracting attention.

Newcastle recently turned down an opening offer of £110m from Liverpool for Isak, who did not feature on the club's recent pre-season tour, citing an injury issue. He was later seen training at former club Real Sociedad.

Isak has now been at St James' Park for three years and has continued to blossom since making a club-record move. He is now among Europe's top strikers but is haggling for a move elsewhere. It is the first time in the Saudi-era at Newcastle that a major name has expressed a desire to push for the exit door, leaving the club with a decision to make.

They value Isak at £150m and are likely to hold out for close to that figure. The Swede has years to run on his contract, meaning Newcastle are not under pressure to sell. They also want to know that they've got a top quality replacement through the door before they consider selling.

Sesko's contract with Leipzig runs through to 2029, but his deal is thought to include a gentleman’s agreement allowing him to leave. He has recorded 39 goals and eight assists in 87 appearances for the German club since moving from RB Salzburg in 2023.