Leipzig set to accept new Benjamin Sesko bid
Benjamin Sesko Transfer Saga Nears Conclusion Amid Major Newcastle Push
For what feels like the umpteenth time in recent days, another dramatic twist unfolded on Monday night in the ever-evolving Benjamin Sesko transfer saga. However, this time, there’s a growing sense that the long-running pursuit of the Slovenian striker may finally be heading toward a decisive conclusion — and it’s Newcastle United who appear to be in the driving seat.
The latest developments were first brought to light by The Athletic’s David Ornstein, who reported that Newcastle had significantly improved their offer for Sesko. Originally tabling a £65 million bid with an additional £5 million in performance-related add-ons, the Magpies have now raised their proposal to a minimum of £70 million — a signal of intent that could finally tip the scales in their favour.
Notably, Manchester United, who have long been linked with the 22-year-old, have yet to submit a formal bid. Ornstein notes that the Red Devils have so far only indicated an intention to bid lower than Newcastle’s latest offer, leaving them on the back foot as their Premier League rivals accelerate negotiations.
Further insight from Sky Sports’ Keith Downie revealed that Newcastle’s new £70 million bid is structured to be paid entirely up front — a bold move that underlines their seriousness. Meanwhile, Sky Germany suggests the total package could rise to as much as €90 million (£78.3 million) once add-ons are factored in.
Positive progress was also reported on the interpersonal front. Newcastle co-owner Jamie Reuben is said to have held direct talks with both RB Leipzig and Sesko himself on Monday, with those conversations described as ‘positive’. The discussions appear to have moved the needle significantly.
Early on Tuesday morning, Sky’s Sacha Tavolieri added another major update: RB Leipzig are now expected to accept Newcastle’s offer, believed to be worth around €90 million. According to Tavolieri, a full agreement between the two clubs is now considered imminent, and Sesko is reportedly leaning toward a move to St. James’ Park, having made the decision to join Eddie Howe’s side.
This latest wave of information represents the strongest indication yet that Sesko is Tyneside-bound, especially as it comes on the heels of a report from The Daily Mail’s Craig Hope, who claimed Newcastle had stepped up their pursuit following positive feedback from the player’s camp.
Newcastle’s aggressive bid — both in terms of structure and value — appears to serve two purposes. First, it is a strategic move to decisively outmuscle Manchester United in the race for Sesko’s signature. But perhaps more intriguingly, it may also hint at plans behind the scenes involving Alexander Isak. With speculation linking the Swedish forward to Liverpool intensifying, Newcastle’s willingness to spend big — particularly with an up-front payment — could suggest they are anticipating a substantial incoming transfer fee, possibly from Isak’s departure.
In any case, Newcastle’s hierarchy are making their intentions clear: they want Sesko, and they’re prepared to go all in to get him. After weeks of back-and-forth and mounting speculation, all signs now point to a breakthrough that could bring the saga to a close — and signal the arrival of one of Europe’s most exciting young strikers at St. James’ Park.