NEWCASTLE UNITED is reportedly preparing a move for RB Leipzig striker Benjamin Sesko after captain Alexander Isak stunned the club by indicating his desire to depart, according to sources close to the transfer.
The 25-year-old Isak, Newcastle’s prized forward valued at £120 million, has allegedly informed the Magpies of his wish to leave St James’ Park, with Liverpool and Saudi Pro League giants Al-Hilal monitoring developments. The Swede’s absence from the club’s pre-season tour in Singapore was initially attributed to a “minor thigh injury,” but insiders reveal he has been grappling with recurring thigh and groin issues that plagued him last season.
Rumors of Isak’s discontent stem from unfulfilled promises of a contract extension and salary increase. Despite Newcastle’s readiness to shatter their £150,000-a-week wage cap to make him their highest-ever earner, the forward remains hesitant to commit to a new deal. The club, backed by its Saudi owners, has so far rejected Liverpool’s advances and insists they will not sell their top scorer from last season.
However, with Isak’s future in limbo, Newcastle is exploring contingency plans. Slovenia international Benjamin Sesko, 22, has emerged as a primary target. The towering 6’5” forward recently inked a contract with RB Leipzig that includes a £55 million release clause. According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, select clubs could trigger a reduced fee of £60-70 million with add-ons under a prior “gentlemen’s agreement.” Sesko scored 21 goals in 45 appearances for Leipzig last term, fueling Newcastle’s interest.
The Magpies’ pursuit of Sesko may face financial hurdles, but rival suitors Arsenal and Manchester United have shifted focus elsewhere. The Gunners are set to finalize a deal for Viktor Gyokeres, while United secured Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo, clearing the path for Newcastle to make their move.
In parallel, Newcastle has launched a £30 million bid for Brentford’s Yoane Wissa. The DR Congo international could follow Bryan Mbeumo’s exit from the Bees, adding depth to Howe’s squad amid uncertainty at the top.
Newcastle legend Alan Shearer criticized the club’s handling of Isak’s situation, calling their injury explanation “ridiculous” during a Betfair interview. He urged transparency: “If Isak wants out, they must secure the best possible deal. Players leave all the time—you have to move on.”
Despite the turmoil, manager Eddie Howe remains adamant Isak will feature in upcoming fixtures, though the striker was sent home from a recent Glasgow training camp due to transfer speculation. Meanwhile, the Toon Army has welcomed 18-year-old South Korean winger Park Seung-soo from Suwon Bluewings, signaling long-term investment amid short-term instability.
As transfer negotiations intensify, Newcastle faces a race against time to retain Isak or secure a viable replacement ahead of the new Premier League season.
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