Man United handed Benjamin Sesko transfer ‘timeline’ as Newcastle sweat over Alexander Isak

Manchester United have been informed that Newcastle’s bid to bring Benjamin Sesko to their club could be dependent on the future of Alexander Isak.

The Reds have been interested, on and off, with Sesko for three years having scouted him during his time at RB Salzburg. Despite signing Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha who can both play as a centre-forward when required, United are understood to be looking for a striker who can replace Rasmus Hojlund.

Ruben Amorim told the media on Friday that he is happy to start the season without a new centre-forward joining the club but having prioritised the signing of Liam Delap earlier in the window, only to miss out on him, a striker is likely to be on the radar.

As mentioned, Sesko could be a target for the Reds with his time in Germany looking as though it is coming to its natural conclusion. Leipzig have not qualified for this season’s Champions League and there have been some claims that Sesko would still be open to United even though they can’t offer him that competition either.

However, following the news that Isak has declared his intent to leave Newcastle this summer, The Times understands that Sesko has been extensively scouted to add depth to the Magpies’ frontline. While it may be assumed that Sesko is being scouted to replace the Swede, in actuality it is claimed that Newcastle have wanted to add him to provide competition for Isak.

The Times notes that Newcastle’s plans to sign Sesko could be dependent on receiving a significant fee for Isak or another player. They claim Leipzig want £70m for their Slovenian and it is unclear whether Eddie Howe’s men have the money available to buy him in advance.

This development would be good news for the Reds as it potentially provides them with an opportunity to swoop in ahead of Newcastle to snap up Sesko. But, they would also need to find the money to buy the striker before making a move.

Alejandro Garnacho, Antony, Jadon Sancho and Tyrell Malacia have all requested to leave the club and could all be used to finance a move for a centre-forward.

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