Benjamin Sesko’s recent omission from RB Leipzig’s friendly squad against Atalanta has ignited intense speculation, placing the promising striker at the heart of a burgeoning transfer saga involving English Premier League giants Manchester United and Newcastle United.

The precise reasons behind Sesko’s absence from the Leipzig lineup remain officially undisclosed by the Bundesliga club, fueling rumors that his non-participation is directly linked to ongoing high-stakes negotiations surrounding his future.

Newcastle United’s sustained and intensifying interest in the Slovenian forward has become increasingly apparent, a development that unfolds against the backdrop of an ongoing situation concerning their current prolific goalscorer, Alexander Isak.

RB Leipzig, fully aware of the rising demand for their talented asset, are reportedly steadfast in their resolve to command a substantial transfer fee, specifically holding firm on their valuation of £70 million for Sesko.

Despite Manchester United’s strategic efforts to streamline their squad by offloading several players during the current summer transfer window, the club possesses the requisite financial flexibility to secure a new striker without immediate sales.

A significant factor contributing to Manchester United’s financial maneuverability is the season-long loan agreement involving Marcus Rashford, a move that has effectively cleared a considerable £12 million from their annual wage expenditure.

Further bolstering their transfer capacity, United has also accrued approximately £20.7 million from various sell-on clauses and other contractual arrangements, including the transfer of Anthony Elanga to Newcastle.

The club’s recent failure to qualify for European competitions, a rare occurrence in their modern history, paradoxically offers a degree of relief from UEFA’s stringent Financial Fair Play regulations, which cap spending on transfers and wages at 70 percent of annual income. This provides an additional strategic advantage in their pursuit of the coveted striker.