Newcastle have reacted to Manchester United’s latest round of talks with RB Leipzig about the transfer of striker Benjamin Šeško.
Manchester United have reportedly identified RB Leipzig striker Benjamin Šeško as their top target to bolster the centre-forward position this summer.
Following the arrivals of Matheus Cunha from Wolves, Bryan Mbeumo from Brentford, and highly rated 18-year-old left-back Diego León from Cerro Porteño, the club are now turning their attention to securing a natural No.9.
Despite Bruno Fernandes finishing last season as United’s leading scorer with 19 goals in all competitions, only three other players reached double digits, underlining the pressing need for a reliable striker.
Rúben Amorim is prioritising the signing of a central forward ahead of the new season, with Šeško emerging as the frontrunner and less than a month remaining in the transfer window.
The 22-year-old Slovenian scored 21 goals for Leipzig during the 2024/25 campaign and has been on United’s radar for some time.
United hold fresh talks with Leipzig
On Saturday evening, reports emerged that United had held a fresh round of talks with the Bundesliga club over the weekend, following Leipzig’s rejection of an initial bid for Šeško from Newcastle.
The Gordie side had submitted an offer of £65.5 million plus a further £4.3 million in add-ons, but this was turned down as Leipzig felt it was insufficient.
According to Fabrizio Romano, United’s latest round of discussions with Leipzig were to inform the side that they do intend to bid for the player should he give an official indication that he would like to sign for United.
Although there have been reports suggesting that United is his favoured destination, Newcastle are believed to be offering a more lucrative financial package, meaning the striker’s team are taking time before communicating an official decision.
Newcastle react as Šeško decision looms
Amid United’s latest meetings, Newcastle are prepared to improve their offer to Leipzig for Šeško and are optimistic that an agreement on both the fee and structure can be reached, according to transfer expert Ben Jacobs.
The fixed part of Newcastle’s proposal already meets Leipzig’s valuation, and the club now believe they are in a strong position to move quickly on the club-to-club side of the deal.
Jacobs has reiterated that a proposal from United is expected to follow if Šeško signals his desire to join. Both clubs are now awaiting the striker’s final decision, which is expected soon.
While Newcastle are ready to accelerate negotiations, United remain firmly in the race and Leipzig are aware of their ongoing interest. The next steps depend on Šeško, who is considering his options before making a call on his future.
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