Liverpool Suffer Potential Transfer Blow as Man United Launch £73.8m Bid | OneFootball

Manchester United Enter the Race for Benjamin Sesko – Implications for Liverpool and Isak

Reports from BILD this afternoon suggest that Manchester United have officially entered the battle for RB Leipzig striker Benjamin Sesko, submitting a bid worth €75m plus €10m in add-ons. This move could have significant repercussions for Liverpool’s transfer ambitions, particularly regarding Newcastle United’s Alexander Isak.

For much of the summer, Newcastle had been leading the chase for the Slovenian forward. Their first bid of €75m plus €5m in add-ons was turned down by the Bundesliga club, followed by an improved offer of at least €80m. Until now, United had been content to let the Magpies push ahead in negotiations, although their interest in Sesko has never been in question.

The sudden intervention from Old Trafford, as relayed by Jan Aage Fjortoft via BILD, changes the landscape considerably.

RB Leipzig Stand Firm on Valuation

RB Leipzig’s approach to negotiations has been consistent. They rejected Newcastle’s €75m fixed fee despite the overall package reaching €80m, which suggests a preference for higher guaranteed sums rather than incentive-heavy deals.

Photo: IMAGO

United’s offer, though potentially worth €85m in total, may still fall short of Leipzig’s expectations if the fixed fee element is not increased. Given Sesko’s 21 goals and six assists in 45 appearances last season, the German side hold a strong bargaining position and no immediate pressure to sell.

Knock-On Effect for Liverpool’s Pursuit of Isak

The Sesko situation directly impacts Liverpool’s interest in Alexander Isak. Newcastle’s stance, as reported by the Daily Mail’s Craig Hope, is clear. They will only sanction the sale of their Swedish forward if a suitable replacement is secured.

If Sesko were to join United rather than Newcastle, Eddie Howe’s team would need to identify an alternative striker before considering a deal for Isak. Nicolas Jackson of Chelsea has been floated as one possibility, with the Blues reportedly open to a sale for the right price.

However, the list of available elite strikers is rapidly shortening, increasing the risk that Newcastle hold firm on Isak.

Time Running Out in Striker Market

With pre-season preparations already underway, the battle for top-tier attacking talent is intensifying. Liverpool’s options could narrow further if Newcastle pivot away from selling Isak or if United’s move triggers additional competition in the market.

It remains to be seen whether this development forces Liverpool to accelerate their plans, seek alternative profiles, or wait for a late-window opening. For now, much depends on whether RB Leipzig accept Manchester United’s bid or hold firm in their valuation.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

As Liverpool fans, this news lands with mixed emotions. On one hand, Sesko heading to United is never welcome, given the rivalry and the potential impact he could have in their attack. On the other, the deal’s outcome could be pivotal for our own pursuit of Isak.

If Newcastle secure Sesko, the pathway to signing Isak becomes far smoother. He has proven himself to be one of the Premier League’s most complete centre-forwards, and under Arne Slot, his combination of pace, movement and finishing would be a perfect fit for our system. His versatility to play across the forward line would also help cover the void left by the tragic passing of Diogo Jota.

The worry, of course, is that if Sesko joins United, Newcastle’s options dry up and they simply refuse to sell. Nicolas Jackson may be on their radar, but the gap in quality between him and Isak is clear.

From a fan’s perspective, the hope is that Liverpool are quietly working on contingency plans. There is still time for smart moves in the market, and we have seen this club pull off late-window deals before. With the title to defend and Champions League football back at Anfield, we cannot afford to start the season short in attacking firepower.