Why Arsenal and Man Utd Both Walked Away from Benjamin Sesko Deal Exposed
Newcastle United are positioning themselves to capitalize on reduced competition for RB Leipzig forward Benjamin Šeško, as reports detail why Arsenal and Manchester United have shifted their focus to alternative targets.
At the start of the summer transfer period, Šeško featured prominently on the wish lists of top-tier clubs, alongside Victor Osimhen and Viktor Gyökeres. Yet, two months into the window, the 22-year-old's potential destinations are becoming increasingly limited.
Within this group of three, Osimhen appears set for a loan return to Galatasaray, while Gyökeres remains the sole member close to securing a move to Europe's top level. Arsenal identified the Sporting CP forward as their primary objective and have successfully negotiated terms to complete the transfer.
A package valued at €63.5million (£55.2 million, $74.7 million) plus an additional €10 million (£8.7 million, $11.8 million) has been finalized for Gyökeres, with The Athletic reporting that Arsenal viewed this as superior value compared to pursuing Šeško.
The North London club reportedly held discussions with both Leipzig officials and Šeško's agents but were dissatisfied with the asking price, believing the 22-year-old required "substantial development" and didn't warrant Leipzig's valuation exceeding €75 million (£65.2 million, $88.2 million).
Manchester United continue their search for a striker but share Arsenal's concerns regarding Šeško. The Slovenian forward recorded 13 goals across 33 Bundesliga matches last campaign—a decent return but insufficient to validate such an expensive acquisition. Consequently, they made inquiries about Aston Villa's Ollie Watkins instead.
Šeško reportedly anticipated a summer departure, but Leipzig now believe he may stay for another campaign, though Newcastle are contemplating making an offer to alter this situation.
Newcastle view Šeško as a potential successor to Alexander Isak, who has allegedly communicated his wish to depart the club this summer and hasn't joined the pre-season tour. The club's official statement attributes his absence to a thigh problem.
Should Isak leave—though far from guaranteed currently—it would certainly provide the financial resources necessary to pursue Šeško. The Magpies are anticipated to seek up to £150 million ($202.9 million) to sanction such a sale.