Newcastle United submit €80 million offer for Benjamin Sesko

Newcastle United have submitted an offer of €80 million to RB Leipzig for Benjamin Sesko, according to Sky Sports.

Manchester United were initially the favourites to sign Sesko, but Newcastle’s intensified efforts over the last few days have tilted the balance in their favour.

Sesko is reportedly now keen on a move to St James’ Park, attracted by Newcastle’s burgeoning status, Champions League football and a key role in the team’s attacking strategy under manager Eddie Howe.

Newcastle are working to finalise a deal with Leipzig and have tabled a bid worth an initial €75 million plus €5m in add-ons.

This would smash the existing club-record €70m fee that Newcastle paid for Alexander Isak three years ago.

Leipzig are aiming for a guaranteed €75m to sanction Sesko’s sale just 12 months after he signed a new five-year deal at the Red Bull Arena last summer.

Several Premier League clubs have courted Sesko since then and could finally be set for a move to English football.

Despite Newcastle’s progress on the Sesko front over the last couple of hours, ManUnited are not giving up and remain in contact with the player’s camp.

They will need to act fast as Leipzig want a quick resolution regarding Sesko’s future.

Leipzig are interested in Rasmus Hojlund and could be open to a player-plus-cash deal. However, he is keen to remain at Old Trafford, meaning United will likely have to match Newcastle’s bid.