Newcastle Renews Pressure for Šeško as United Moves Forward with Billion-Dollar Offer

The race to sign RB Leipzig striker Benjamin Šeško has intensified, with Newcastle United issuing a 48-hour deadline for the Slovenian forward to accept their €80 million offer — while Manchester United has now tabled a higher bid worth approximately £74 million (€87 million) including bonuses.
The 22-year-old striker, one of Europe’s most coveted young forwards, has become the focal point of one of the summer’s fiercest transfer battles.
United Outbids Newcastle — Betting on Šeško’s Preference
According to sources close to the negotiations, Manchester United is confident it can hijack Newcastle’s move by appealing to Šeško’s personal preference for a switch to Old Trafford. United’s improved offer is estimated at €7 million more than Newcastle’s bid.
RB Leipzig, while reluctant to lose the player, is reportedly open to selling if the price is right. The Bundesliga club is awaiting a definitive response from Šeško before finalizing terms.
Deadline Looms: Newcastle’s Final Push
Newcastle United, aiming to reinforce their attacking line for the 2025/26 campaign, has given Šeško until midweek to make a decision. The urgency is partly driven by internal squad dynamics, particularly the future of Alexander Isak, who could be sold to fund the move or make room for the new arrival.
The Magpies are seeking clarity to avoid being left behind if United’s offer sways the player in the final hours.
Profile: Who Is Benjamin Šeško?
Šeško has been a standout performer since joining RB Leipzig from Red Bull Salzburg in 2022. Known for his clinical finishing, tactical awareness, and physical dominance, the 1.95m striker has scored 39 goals in 87 appearances for Leipzig.
Still just 22, Šeško is seen as a long-term solution for any club looking to secure a prolific No. 9 capable of operating in high-intensity systems.
Market Domino Effect: Isak, Forward Transfers Tied to Outcome
The outcome of Šeško’s decision will ripple across the Premier League transfer market. If he joins Newcastle, Isak could be sold, possibly to another top-tier club. If he chooses United, Newcastle will likely restart their striker search with urgency.
Decision Expected Within 48 Hours
With both English clubs now heavily invested, the next 48 hours will be decisive. Leipzig has not set an official deadline, but both United and Newcastle are pushing for a resolution before the weekend.
The Šeško saga could redefine both clubs’ attacking lineups heading into the 2025/26 season and may spark further transfer activity across Europe.