Romano Drops Major Update as Man Utd Step Up Pursuit of Benjamin Sesko Amid Ongoing Battle with Newcastle
Transfer insider Fabrizio Romano has offered fresh insight into Manchester United’s pursuit of RB Leipzig striker Benjamin Sesko, revealing that a deal for the highly-rated Slovenian forward is very much “on,” despite fierce competition from Premier League rivals Newcastle United.
Manchester United, already active in this summer’s transfer window, have bolstered their attacking ranks with the acquisitions of Matheus Cunha from Wolves and Bryan Mbeumo from Brentford. In addition, young Paraguayan prospect Diego Leon has joined the club, adding to their long-term plans. However, United’s transfer activity is far from over. Reports indicate that the Red Devils are still targeting at least three more signings before the window closes — a top-class striker, a defensive midfielder, and a goalkeeper remain high on their agenda.
Among the forward options being considered, Benjamin Sesko and Aston Villa star Ollie Watkins have emerged as two of the most frequently discussed names behind the scenes at Old Trafford. While United are still weighing up their next move, the club appears to be focusing more heavily on Sesko, a player who has long been on their radar.
Speaking on his YouTube channel over the weekend, Romano provided a significant update, stating that the coming days could be crucial in determining Sesko’s future. He revealed that Newcastle United are preparing a major push to sign the 21-year-old, with a substantial contract offer already on the table and the club ready to approach RB Leipzig directly to negotiate a deal.
“Next week is expected to be very important for the future of Benjamin Sesko,” Romano explained. “Newcastle are going big — they’re ready with a contract proposal and plan to make a serious move. Their intent is clear: they want Sesko, and they’re prepared to do what it takes to get him.”
However, Manchester United remain firmly in the race. Romano emphasized that United’s interest in the Slovenian is genuine and that discussions are ongoing internally, despite the financial complexities involved in the transfer.
“It’s an expensive deal, which makes it complicated,” Romano continued. “But it’s important not to forget the gentleman’s agreement I previously reported — Sesko has an understanding with Leipzig that if certain clubs come calling, he’ll be allowed to leave under specific conditions.”
This so-called ‘private agreement’ allows Sesko to leave if Leipzig receive an offer in the region of €70 million to €80 million in guaranteed fees, plus an additional €5 million to €10 million in performance-related add-ons. These terms only apply to a select few clubs Sesko considers ‘special’ — a list that reportedly includes Manchester United.
Romano returned midweek with further developments, writing for GiveMeSport that the race between Man Utd and Newcastle remains “ongoing,” and both clubs are still in contention. Should Sesko decide to join the Magpies, Romano claims they are “ready to close the deal quickly.” However, the striker is not rushing into a decision.
Sesko is said to be carefully evaluating all options, weighing the pros and cons of each potential move. Meanwhile, Manchester United have ramped up their efforts by initiating direct contact with RB Leipzig in the past 48 hours. Romano indicates that face-to-face discussions have already taken place as the Red Devils work to hammer out the specifics of a potential transfer.
In addition to the club-level negotiations, Manchester United are also reportedly checking on the exact terms of the gentleman’s agreement between Sesko and Leipzig. They want clarity on whether the €70–80 million figure still holds and whether they qualify as one of the clubs granted preferential terms under that agreement.
A key figure in United’s pursuit is Christopher Vivell, the former RB Leipzig and Chelsea technical director, who is said to be leading the club’s efforts to bring Sesko to Old Trafford. Vivell’s close ties to Leipzig and deep knowledge of the Bundesliga market could prove pivotal in negotiations.
Romano concluded his update by confirming that the “deal is on” for Manchester United and that the coming days could be decisive. With Newcastle pushing hard and United responding with concrete interest, the stage is set for a dramatic transfer battle over one of Europe’s brightest young strikers.
For now, all eyes remain on Sesko, as he deliberates his next move. Both Manchester United and Newcastle are ready to welcome him — the decision now lies in the player’s hands.