Benjamin Sesko is seemingly locked in a tug of war between Newcastle United and Manchester United.

Sesko could replace Alexander Isak at Newcastle this summer after the Swedish forward asked to leave the club amid interest from Liverpool. 

Newcastle are interested in Sesko but they are not alone in that.

Indeed, Sesko also has interest from Manchester United and the Red Devils certainly have previous when it comes to making life difficult for Newcastle this summer.

Both Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo have moved to Old Trafford after significant links with a move to St James’ Park.

They remain in the running for Sesko, who appears to have reacted positively to their interest.

Benjamin Sesko playing in the Bundesliga for RB Leipzig against Stuttgart.Photo by Ulrik Pedersen/NurPhoto via Getty ImagesManchester United have impressed Benjamin Sesko

According to German football expert Florian Plettenberg on social media platform X, Ruben Amorim’s side are refusing to give up on the idea of signing the 22-year-old this summer.

They have presented the player with what are being described as “clear figures” and their project.

Sesko is said to have been impressed by the discussion.

Newcastle are reportedly refusing to back down and will submit an offer when they get encouragement. Leipzig, for their part, want at least £69million for his services.

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Benjamin Sesko could be set for Newcastle United U-turn

Sesko would never have joined Newcastle if Isak stayed, though he could do if the Sweden international does end up leaving. 

In March, transfer expert Graeme Bailey told Geordie Boot Boys: “It is almost certain that Benjamin Sesko will come to the Premier League this summer.” 

Before adding: “Sesko would be on Newcastle’s radar if Alexander Isak were to leave. If Isak stays, Sesko is not going to come and play second fiddle.”

2024/25 statistics Benjamin Sesko Alexander Isak Games 33 34 Goals 13 23 Assists 5 6 Aerial duels won 2.1 0.8 Key passes/90 0.6 1.2 Shots/90 2.1 2.9

Alexander Isak and Benjamin Sesko league records for 2024/25 season compared, data via WhoScored

It remains to be seen who wins the race for the Slovenia international.

Sadly, however, there is little to suggest that Newcastle are capable of winning a transfer battle this summer even despite the fact they have Champions League football on offer.

Cunha, Mbeumo and Sesko could form a formidable frontline at Man United next season. The same could be said of former Toon target Hugo Ekitike and potentially Isak at Liverpool.

That is a painful thought for any Newcastle supporter.