Manchester United are reportedly preparing to go head-to-head with Newcastle United in a fierce bidding war for RB Leipzig striker Benjamin Šeško.
According to multiple media sources, Newcastle United have already made an official approach for the Slovenian international.
Their initial offer, reported to be around £70 million (€80 million) — consisting of £64 million (€75 million) in a fixed fee and £4 million (€5 million) in add-ons — has been rejected by the Bundesliga club.
Manchester United are now said to be ready to match Newcastle’s rejected bid for the highly sought-after striker.
However, it’s important to note that RB Leipzig are holding out for a slightly higher package.
As per a report from Bild, Leipzig are demanding a deal worth at least £74 million (€85 million), which would include £64 million guaranteed and £8.5 million (€10 million) in performance-based bonuses.
Additionally, the German club expects any agreement to feature a sell-on clause, which would ensure they receive a percentage of any future transfer fee should Šeško be sold again.
With less than two weeks to go before the new Premier League season kicks off, both Manchester United and Newcastle are urgently trying to bolster their attacking options.
Šeško has emerged as a top target for both clubs. Manchester United, in particular, are desperate for a reliable striker.
Last season, they managed just 44 goals in the Premier League, and shockingly, their forwards contributed only seven of those goals. This lack of firepower has become a major concern heading into the 2025/26 campaign.
Newcastle, meanwhile, are also keen to strengthen their frontline. While Alexander Isak had an impressive season, scoring 23 goals in the Premier League under Eddie Howe, reports suggest the Swedish striker is currently unsettled.
He has reportedly stopped training with the team and is pushing for a move to Liverpool, which could leave Newcastle short-handed if a transfer materializes.
Šeško, who is only 22 years old, has already made a significant impact in the Bundesliga, scoring and assisting a combined 34 goals in 64 appearances for Leipzig.
With his prime years still ahead of him, he represents an exciting long-term prospect for any top club.
As things stand, it remains uncertain where Šeško will end up this summer. Manchester United may be able to offer him a prominent role in rebuilding their attack, while Newcastle can entice him with Champions League football.
The final decision could come down to personal ambition, club vision, and of course, financial terms.
