Newcastle open first talks to sign “the new Haaland”, he’d be a better move than Wissa – opinion
Newcastle United’s Summer of Discontent Continues Amid Striker Search
The summer of 2025 has not been particularly kind to Newcastle United so far. While many clubs use pre-season to build momentum and prepare for the campaign ahead, the Magpies have instead found themselves grappling with a mix of on-field struggles and off-field uncertainty.
Newcastle’s preparations for the new season have taken a hit with back-to-back defeats in their pre-season friendlies. First, they were comprehensively outclassed by Celtic in a 4-0 defeat in Glasgow. That was followed by another loss, this time a narrower 3-2 defeat to Arsenal at the Singapore National Stadium. Goals from Anthony Elanga and Jacob Murphy provided brief moments of hope, but ultimately proved in vain as the Magpies fell short in Kallang.
Isak’s Absence Fuels Transfer Speculation
One of the most conspicuous developments of Newcastle’s summer tour is the absence of Alexander Isak. The Swedish striker has not travelled with the team to Southeast Asia, and reports have been swirling that the forward is pushing for a move away from St James’ Park. While the club officially cited a minor groin issue, growing speculation suggests that Isak may be seeking a fresh challenge elsewhere, with Liverpool reportedly among the clubs keeping tabs on him.
In response, head coach Eddie Howe, along with his recruitment team, has been forced to take decisive action in the transfer market. With the season approaching and Callum Wilson recently released, the urgency to bring in a new centre-forward has increased significantly.
Newcastle’s Evolving Striker Targets
Initially, Newcastle had their sights set on Hugo Ekitiké, the young Frenchman who impressed at Eintracht Frankfurt. According to Seb Stafford-Bloor and David Ornstein of The Athletic, Newcastle were among the leading contenders to land the 22-year-old. However, in a dramatic twist, Ekitiké opted to join Liverpool in a deal worth approximately £79 million.
Following that setback, attention quickly turned to Brentford’s Yoane Wissa. There were multiple reports suggesting that negotiations were underway. However, Sky Sports News’ Dharmesh Sheth and Keith Downie reported that the move has now collapsed, and the club is “moving on to other targets.”
With limited options in attack — William Osula was the only senior striker available during their fixture in Singapore — the need for reinforcements has become all the more urgent.
A New Name Emerges: Benjamin Šeško
Amid this striker crisis, Newcastle have reportedly set their sights on Slovenian forward Benjamin Šeško. Craig Hope of The Daily Mail reports that the club has made an official enquiry about the RB Leipzig striker’s availability.
At one point earlier this summer, Šeško looked destined for Arsenal. James McNicholas and Mario Cortegana of The Athletic had identified him as a top target for the Gunners. However, Arsenal’s focus shifted after the arrival of sporting director Andrea Berta, who played a key role in the club signing Viktor Gyökeres instead.
Now, Newcastle could benefit from that pivot. According to BILD’s Yvonne Gabriel, RB Leipzig have lowered their asking price for Šeško due to a lack of concrete offers. Initially valued at around €100 million (£87 million), the Bundesliga side is now reportedly willing to let him go for closer to €70 million (£61 million) — a potentially shrewd opportunity for the Magpies.
Why Šeško Could Be a Game-Changer for Newcastle
Benjamin Šeško is regarded as one of the most exciting young strikers in Europe. At just 22 years old, his blend of size, speed, and skill has drawn widespread praise. Football presenter Adam Keys has lauded the striker’s “superb ball-striking” and physical presence, while analyst Ben Mattinson highlighted his “elite movement,” finishing ability, and two-footed proficiency. Scout Jacek Kulig even went as far as to nickname him “the new Haaland,” such is the quality of his attributes.
During his time at RB Leipzig, Šeško has netted 39 goals in 87 appearances — a strike rate of one goal every 136 minutes. For a player still developing, that output is impressive and shows he’s ready to lead the line at a high level.
Šeško vs. Wissa: Who’s the Better Fit?
Comparisons between Šeško and former Newcastle target Yoane Wissa are inevitable. Statistically, the two had fairly similar outputs last season. Šeško scored slightly more goals across all competitions, created more big chances, and had a higher take-on success rate.
Wissa, who is entering the final year of his contract at Brentford and will turn 29 in September, remains a proven Premier League forward. However, the reported £35 million fee for the Congolese striker is being questioned, especially considering his age and contract situation.
In contrast, Šeško’s age and potential for growth make him a more long-term investment. His ceiling appears far higher, and at a time when Newcastle are building for sustained success, he could offer a foundation for the future — as well as an immediate boost.
A Crucial Decision for Eddie Howe and Newcastle
As Newcastle continue to navigate a tricky transfer window, the decision over who to bring in as their new striker could define their season — and potentially, their long-term trajectory under Eddie Howe.
Missing out on Ekitiké and Wissa may have been disappointing, but the opportunity to land a player of Benjamin Šeško’s calibre at a reduced price could turn this turbulent summer into a transformative one. For a club aiming to re-establish itself among the Premier League elite, the next move in the transfer market might be their most important yet.