Newcastle Sets Transfer Ultimatum for Man Utd's Prime Target Benjamin Sesko

Newcastle United have issued an ultimatum to RB Leipzig forward Benjamin Šeško, demanding a definitive response regarding his potential move to the club within hours, according to recent reports.

Though the Magpies were already seeking striker reinforcements during the summer transfer window, their need for attacking options has intensified due to continuing speculation around Alexander Isak, who is reportedly eager to secure a transfer to Liverpool this summer.

An offer valued at €75 million (£65.4 million, $86.8 million) is believed to have been rejected by Leipzig, and while Newcastle contemplate submitting an enhanced proposal, they have yet to receive clarity from Šeško regarding his willingness to move to St James' Park. Manchester United are also pursuing the player's services, with concerns that the Slovenian striker may be delaying his decision while waiting for the Red Devils to submit a competing offer.

Unwilling to prolong the wait, the Daily Mail reports that Newcastle have requested Šeško provide his answer before Monday concludes, recognizing they will require sufficient time to explore backup options should this transfer fail to materialize.

Newcastle remain optimistic about completing the transfer but have communicated clearly to Šeško that he must promptly determine whether to continue awaiting Man Utd's approach. The Magpies commence their Premier League campaign on Aug. 16 with an away fixture against Aston Villa and, given questions surrounding Isak's participation—a minor thigh problem has heightened concerns this summer—Newcastle seek clarity regarding their lead striker position.

Isak has returned to Newcastle but, having expressed his intention to depart the club, may not be immediately available for selection if manager Eddie Howe questions whether the Swedish striker possesses the proper mentality.

Should Šeško decline Newcastle's offer, alternatives such as Brentford's Yoane Wissa and Paris Saint-Germain's Gonçalo Ramos are anticipated to enter the discussion.

Currently, Newcastle remain the sole club to have submitted an official bid to Leipzig. Sky Sports Germany indicates that Man Utd are prepared to equal the Magpies' offer, but only upon receiving assurance from the striker that he desires a move to Old Trafford.

Earlier reports have indicated that Man Utd would not need to offload players before making a bid for Šeško, however, should they complete such a deal, they would be compelled to sell assets later in the summer to recoup the expenditure and avoid violating financial fair play rules.