Newcastle United Eye Mega Move For Slovenian Star: Is He A Good Choice For The Magpies? | OneFootball

Newcastle United, champions of the EFL Cup 2024/25, do not want to remain stagnant after the achievement, especially after they have qualified for the UEFA Champions League yet again. Newcastle are looking to strengthen their attack and start the 2025/26 season with a bang.

Although Eddie Howe has assembled a competitive squad, the lack of alternatives on the attacking front is felt every time Alexander Isak needs a rest or when Callum Wilson suffers another physical setback. Since the club are now competing at a much higher level, the need for depth is a must for the Magpies.

In recent seasons, the Magpies have shown a clear trajectory in their improvement. From struggling in mid-table, they have gone on to fight for European places. Their return to the Champions League was not an accident; it was the product of coherent decisions and wise signings.

However, the squad still has fragile areas. The attack, beyond the talent of Isak, relies too much on individual moments. With Wilson increasingly prone to injury, the sporting management knows that they must act.

A new name for Howe’s attack

According to Graeme Bailey of TBR Football, Benjamin Sesko has entered Newcastle United’s interest list with a bang. The 22-year-old Slovenian striker, currently at RB Leipzig, failed to secure his dream move to Arsenal. With that failure, the St. James Park club are emerging as a serious option. The Magpies had already tried to sign Hugo Ekitike, but the Frenchman prefers Liverpool. So, Sesko appears to be the alternative plan.

The 1.95m tall striker is powerful, quick and has a nose for scoring decisive goals. Last season, he scored 21 goals in 45 games. He has a profile suited to the Premier League and doesn’t need too much space to do damage. Although Sesko’s physique is reminiscent of a classic number nine, his mobility takes him away from the traditional mould. The Slovenian can complement Isak well or even play alone up front if the Swede is not available.

The ideal profile or an unnecessary luxury for Newcastle United?

The logic behind the interest is clear. Newcastle need more attacking options up front, but spending close to £100 million on a striker who is still a long way from being established may be excessive. Sesko has potential, but his desire to play for clubs like Arsenal or Manchester United could be a problem. Adapting to a system like Howe’s, which demands sacrifice and collective understanding, is not guaranteed.

Moreover, with FFP tightening, spending so much on a substitute would be a risk. Isak remains the team’s attacking focal point in a 4-3-3 formation, and while Wilson is no longer physically reliable, there are more realistic alternatives. Ollie Watkins, for example, offers league experience and lower cost. The club needs balance in their squad, not media signings without a secure fit to the project.

Sesko could be a great investment for a long-term project, but Newcastle are not in a position to make hundred million-dollar gambles. If they can negotiate for a reasonable figure, it makes sense. Otherwise, they should look in another direction.