Newcastle United’s plans to replace star striker Alexander Isak have hit a major snag as Manchester United have entered the race with an aggressive bid for RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko, a key target identified as Isak’s potential successor.
With Isak’s future uncertain amid a reported £150m move to Liverpool, the Magpies now face a fierce battle to secure a clinical striker to lead their line for the 2025-26 Premier League season.
Isak’s Exit Looms
Alexander Isak, Newcastle’s talismanic forward, has reportedly agreed personal terms with Liverpool on a five-year contract, with the Reds preparing a British record-breaking bid to prise him away from St James’ Park.
The 25-year-old Swede, who scored 23 Premier League goals last season, has expressed his desire to explore new options, citing ambitions to win major trophies and earn a £250,000-£300,000 weekly wage.
Newcastle, despite insisting Isak is not for sale and valuing him at £150m, are bracing for his potential departure, which would leave a gaping hole in their attack.
Manager Eddie Howe, speaking after a pre-season defeat to a K-League XI in South Korea, acknowledged the uncertainty: “My wish is that Alex stays, but it’s not fully in my control. We’ve had no formal offer, but we’re preparing for all scenarios.”
The club’s strong financial position, bolstered by Champions League qualification and a Carabao Cup triumph last season, means they have the funds to reinvest, but finding a suitable replacement is proving challenging.
Man United’s Bid for Sesko
Newcastle had identified 22-year-old Benjamin Sesko as their top choice to fill Isak’s boots.
The RB Leipzig striker, who scored 21 goals in 45 appearances last season, is seen as a player with immense potential, combining physicality, pace, and long-range finishing.
Reports indicate Newcastle have agreed terms with Sesko and are ready to meet Leipzig’s £61m valuation, but the Slovenian is taking his time to assess his options.
Complicating matters, Manchester United have now made Sesko their priority target, shifting focus from Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins.
The Red Devils, under Ruben Amorim, are desperate to bolster their attack after missing out on Champions League football and have already spent over £100m on Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo this summer.
Transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano noted that Sesko is waiting to hear from United, who may need to sell players like Antony or Jadon Sancho to fund the move.
Newcastle’s Alternative Targets
With Sesko’s move in doubt, Newcastle are exploring other options to replace Isak. Brentford’s Yoane Wissa, who scored 19 Premier League goals last term, remains a target.
Fulham’s Rodrigo Muniz, a 24-year-old Brazilian with 17 top-flight goals in 16 months, has also emerged as a candidate, boasting a clinical finishing record surpassed only by Isak, Erling Haaland, and Mohamed Salah among others.
