RB Leipzig turn down Newcastle United’s €80 million offer for Benjamin Sesko | OneFootball

RB Leipzig have rejected Newcastle United’s club-record €80 million offer for Slovenian striker Benjamin Sesko, according to Ben Jacobs.

Newcastle’s bid, comprising a guaranteed €75 million and €5 million in potential add-ons, was recently put forward in a quest to edge out Manchester United in securing the 22-year-old’s signature.

The offer matched Leipzig’s reported valuation but has now been deemed “insufficient” by the Bundesliga side due to the deal’s overall package and structure.

Sesko’s contract with Leipzig runs until 2029 and includes a gentleman’s agreement from his last contract renewal that could allow him to leave.

Sesko was left out of Leipzig’s squad for their friendly against Atalanta today and is expected to leave, although Leipzig are open to keeping him, with Xavi Simons and possibly Lois Openda on their way out.

While the Slovenian has shown a preference for the Premier League, he is still keeping his options open between Newcastle and Manchester United.

Manchester United are still pushing to land Sesko and Leipzig’s rejection of Newcastle’s bid keeps the transfer race open.

Eddie Howe’s side must now consider whether to improve their offer or explore alternative targets. Yoane Wissa remains of interest and could be on his way out after Brentford recently softened their stance regarding his departure.

Newcastle’s pursuit of Sesko is expected to have a ripple effect, as the Magpies are keen to bring Sesko in to mitigate the potential departure of Alexander Isak.

Isak skipped Newcastle’s preseason tour, and despite returning to the club today, he remains keen on an exit, with Liverpool the preferred destination.