
Future of Alexander Isak Unclear as Newcastle Intensify Pursuit of Benjamin Šeško
Mansion Sports - Newcastle United have made a renewed official bid to sign highly-rated Slovenian striker Benjamin Šeško from Bundesliga side RB Leipzig, amid ongoing uncertainty regarding the future of their current lead forward, Alexander Isak.
The Magpies’ initial offer—reportedly valued at €75 million (approximately £65.3 million or $86.4 million), with an additional €5 million in performance-related bonuses—was firmly rejected by Leipzig.
However, according to The Athletic, Newcastle have since returned with an improved proposal, increasing the guaranteed fee to at least €80 million (£69.6 million or $92.5 million).
Newcastle Add Performance Bonuses Amidst Competition
Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has reported that Newcastle’s latest offer also includes an additional €10 million (£8.7 million or $11.5 million) in potential bonuses.
This substantial increase underlines the club’s serious intent to secure Šeško as a key part of their long-term project.
Meanwhile, Manchester United remain interested in signing Šeško but have yet to submit an official bid.
As of now, the Red Devils are reportedly unwilling to match either of Newcastle’s offers, which could give the Tyneside club a significant advantage should the player decide to make a move this summer.
Also Read: “Manchester United and Newcastle United in Fierce Pursuit of Benjamin Šeško”
Arsenal’s Move for Gyökeres Clears the Path for Šeško
Earlier in the transfer window, Arsenal were strongly linked with Šeško and had reportedly maintained communication with the player for over a year.
However, the North London club opted to sign Viktor Gyökeres from Sporting CP instead, citing Šeško’s valuation as too high.
Interestingly, Gyökeres was also on Manchester United’s radar due to his previous connection with current manager Ruben Amorim during their time at Sporting.
Following Arsenal’s acquisition of Gyökeres, United appear to have shifted focus toward Šeško as a potential top target for their frontline should they move forward with plans to reinforce their attacking unit.
Challenging Transfer Window for Newcastle Amid Isak Uncertainty
Newcastle’s activity in the summer transfer market has drawn criticism from club legend Alan Shearer, who described the window as underwhelming so far.
To date, the club has only finalized the permanent signing of Anthony Elanga and secured Aaron Ramsdale on a season-long loan.
However, speculation has been dominated by the potential departure of Alexander Isak. Liverpool recently submitted a bid to acquire the Swedish striker, which was promptly rejected by Newcastle.
Nonetheless, reports suggest the Merseyside club could return with a second offer before the window closes.
The possibility of losing their main goalscorer—especially as Newcastle prepare for a return to the UEFA Champions League—has become a growing concern within the club.
Notably, another former Newcastle target, French forward Hugo Ekitiké, has instead opted to join Liverpool, further complicating the Magpies’ options.
Šeško’s Long-Term Leipzig Contract Contains Potential Exit Clause
Benjamin Šeško remains under contract with RB Leipzig until 2029. However, it is understood that the agreement includes a clause permitting a transfer if the player and his representatives believe a project aligns with his development goals.
Šeško registered 21 goals across all competitions last season, solidifying his status as one of Europe’s most promising young forwards.
While Leipzig remains firm in its valuation, a suitable offer and project could pave the way for his departure this summer.
As the transfer window draws to a close, Šeško’s future continues to be a central storyline. The outcome of these negotiations could have major implications for Newcastle United’s attacking plans—and for the trajectory of one of Europe’s rising stars.