Alexander Isak hasn’t left yet, but behind the scenes, Newcastle United is pushing ahead in their search for the Swedish striker’s successor.
Embed from Getty Images
Newcastle United’s pursuit of Benjamin Šeško has entered an advanced and potentially decisive phase, as the club escalates efforts to secure the highly rated Slovenian striker amid growing uncertainty over the future of their current star forward, Alexander Isak.
With Liverpool expressing serious interest in Isak, and speculation mounting that a bid could soon be tabled by the Anfield side, Newcastle is acting swiftly to ensure they are not caught unprepared. Šeško, who has attracted interest across Europe, is now firmly at the top of their shortlist.
Šeško, just 22 years old, has had a meteoric rise through the Red Bull football system. After making a name for himself at Red Bull Salzburg with his physical presence, movement, and goal-scoring ability, he moved to RB Leipzig to continue his development in one of Europe’s top leagues. His performances in the Bundesliga have only enhanced his reputation, with scouts praising his athleticism, composure in front of goal, and the versatility that allows him to play as both a traditional striker and a mobile attacking outlet in dynamic systems.
Newcastle, aware that losing Isak would create a massive void in their attack, have made it a priority to move aggressively for a player who could fill that gap without requiring a long adaptation period. Their first offer for Šeško reportedly €80 million including bonuses was turned down by RB Leipzig, who are under no financial pressure to sell and have made it clear they won’t part with their prized asset unless the terms are extremely favorable.
Undeterred, Newcastle returned with a second bid, raising the stakes to €90 million including bonuses. That figure, revealed by Sky Sports, reflects not only the club’s determination to land Šeško but also their commitment to strengthening the squad in line with their Champions League ambitions. Backed by the club’s Saudi ownership, Newcastle has the financial muscle to compete at the highest level, and this move for Šeško underlines their intent to build a young, dynamic core for the future.
Meanwhile, Manchester United are not backing down. Under new manager Rúben Amorim, the Red Devils are also prioritizing a striker in this window, and Šeško has been high on their radar since the beginning of the summer. On Tuesday, they responded to Newcastle’s bid with an improved offer of their own €85 million including bonuses slightly below what Newcastle placed on the table, but enough to keep them firmly in the race.
Reports suggest that both clubs have already reached full personal agreements with Šeško, according to Sky Sport Deutschland, meaning the decision now rests largely with RB Leipzig and, to some extent, the player himself. From Šeško’s perspective, both clubs offer compelling narratives. Manchester United provides historical prestige, a global platform, and the promise of being the focal point of Amorim’s evolving tactical setup. Newcastle, on the other hand, represents an exciting long-term project with a team built around emerging stars, consistent Champions League aspirations, and a passionate fan base at St. James' Park.
Though initially inclined towards Manchester United, Šeško has reportedly been impressed by Newcastle’s vision for the future and the level of confidence they’ve shown in him by pushing aggressively for his signature. The player is known to value consistent playing time, and with Isak potentially on his way out, the Magpies may be able to offer a clearer path to a guaranteed starting role something that could weigh heavily in Šeško’s decision-making process.
RB Leipzig now holds the cards. The German side has been successful in developing and selling talent at the right time with Timo Werner, Dominik Szoboszlai, and Christopher Nkunku being recent examples. But losing Šeško would still be a blow, especially if it comes this late in the window. Leipzig is already considering potential replacements, but they are in no rush, and they will only sell if their valuation is fully met.
The next few days could be crucial. If Liverpool steps up their efforts for Isak, Newcastle will almost certainly accelerate the deal to bring Šeško in before losing their current No. 9. For Manchester United, the race for Šeško could run parallel to other forward options being monitored, including Joshua Zirkzee and Rasmus Højlund alternatives, should talks with Leipzig stall.
What is clear is that Šeško’s next move is edging closer, and both Manchester United and Newcastle United are ready to go all in. As one of Europe’s most sought-after young forwards, the Slovenian stands at a crossroads between two ambitious Premier League giants and whichever club wins the race may end up with a cornerstone of their attack for the next decade.
Updated: 02:44, 5 Aug 2025
