David Ornstein: Newcastle €80m bid rejected in striker pursuit
RB Leipzig Reject €80m Offer for Benjamin Sesko
Newcastle United's ambitious summer continues, but their latest move has hit a wall. According to The Athletic, the Magpies' €80million bid for RB Leipzig striker Benjamin Sesko has fallen short of the Bundesliga club's valuation. The proposed deal was structured at €75m upfront with €5m in potential add-ons, but Leipzig appear firm on a package that includes add-ons and a sell-on clause, making Newcastle's offer insufficient.
Sesko, 22, is one of the most sought-after young strikers in Europe. His tally of 39 goals and 8 assists in 87 games for Leipzig underscores why Newcastle, alongside Manchester United and other Premier League giants, are circling.
Isak Uncertainty Sparks Striker Search
Newcastle's interest in Sesko comes amid growing speculation around Alexander Isak. The Swedish international, who reportedly wants to leave, is a target for Liverpool. As The Athletic revealed, Newcastle rejected a £110million bid from the Premier League champions, but Liverpool remain keen.
Isak's pre-season absence was officially due to a thigh issue, yet unnamed sources told The Athletic that he preferred to be omitted while his future remains in limbo. Isak has since returned to training in England after a solo stint at Real Sociedad.
Competition Heats Up for Sesko Signature
Newcastle aren't alone in chasing Sesko. Manchester United are also interested, while Arsenal, who previously monitored the Slovenian, moved instead for Viktor Gyokeres. Chelsea, long-term admirers of Sesko, opted for Liam Delap and Joao Pedro this summer.
Photo IMAGO
Sesko's contract with Leipzig runs until 2029, and although a €65m release clause existed in his previous deal, his new agreement reportedly contains a gentleman's agreement allowing an exit for the right project.
What Newcastle's Next Move Could Be
The Sesko rejection raises questions about Newcastle's transfer direction. Do they push harder for Sesko or pivot to another target? Much hinges on Isak's future — if he leaves, reinforcements will be vital.
'Newcastle United's €80million bid for Benjamin Sesko has fallen short of RB Leipzig's valuation for the striker.' — The Athletic
'Newcastle have rejected a formal £110m offer from Liverpool for Isak.' — The Athletic
Our View – EPL Index Analysis
From a Newcastle fan's perspective, the failed Sesko bid is both frustrating and promising. It's clear the club are being proactive, identifying one of Europe's most talented young forwards and putting serious money on the table. An €80m offer isn't pocket change — it shows ambition.
However, RB Leipzig standing firm is a reality check. Fans will wonder: why didn't we meet their terms if we're serious? The situation with Isak adds more pressure. If he's unsettled, Newcastle risk entering the season without a settled striker — a dangerous gamble.
Some might feel Sesko is still raw for such a price, especially with only two seasons in Germany under his belt. Yet, with 16 goals in 41 caps for Slovenia, he's proven at international level. Supporters know Newcastle can't lag behind Liverpool, Arsenal or Man United in the transfer market.
Ultimately, fans will want clarity — will Isak stay or go? And if he leaves, can we land Sesko or someone of similar calibre? Newcastle are at a crossroads. The ambition is admirable, but execution must follow.
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