Alexander Isak. Mike DiNovo-Imagn Images

Newcastle's record bid for Isak replacement rejected as club shifts focus

By Matt Evans | Last updated Aug 4, 2025 8:17 AM ET

With Alexander Isak dominating soccer headlines amid growing speculation over a move to Liverpool, Newcastle United is preparing for life without its star striker.

It’s been a frustrating summer on Tyneside, as the Magpies have seen several transfer pursuits fall short. Newcastle missed out on goalkeeper James Trafford and forward Hugo Ekitike, with the pair opting to join Manchester City and Liverpool, respectively.

That frustration has now extended to the club’s latest target, Benjamin Sesko. According to reports, Newcastle's club-record £70M bid for the RB Leipzig striker has been rejected, equivalent to approximately $92M.

While it had been previously suggested that such a fee would meet Leipzig’s valuation, the Bundesliga side is reportedly holding out for a higher figure, with Manchester United also in the race for the 22-year-old.

Most non-penalty goals by players aged 23 or younger across Europe’s top five leagues since the start of last season:

Benjamin Šeško — 25
Maximilian Beier — 24
Emanuel Emegha —22

Top of the charts. pic.twitter.com/KW2JvTX7c5
— Statman Dave (@StatmanDave) August 2, 2025

Sesko, who scored 21 goals across all competitions in the 2024-25 season, is believed to be open to a move to either Old Trafford or St. James’ Park. The Sun claims Newcastle is weighing up whether to return with an improved offer.

However, if Leipzig proves unwilling to sell, Newcastle may look elsewhere. Paris Saint-Germain’s Goncalo Ramos has emerged as a potential alternative.

The Portuguese international scored 19 goals in 46 appearances last season but struggled for consistent minutes in Ligue 1, starting just 12 of PSG’s 22 domestic games and averaging under 50 minutes per appearance.

A starting role in the Premier League could appeal to the 24-year-old. Still, PSG is reportedly reluctant to let Ramos leave, viewing him as an important depth player for the upcoming campaign following its historic Champions League triumph.

Newcastle opens its 2025-26 Premier League season away to Aston Villa on Saturday, Aug. 16, before hosting reigning champion Liverpool. Whether Isak will be lining up against his current club remains to be seen.

Matt Evans

Matt Evans is a sports journalist from the United Kingdom, now based in Paris, France. He has covered various sports including basketball, soccer, boxing, MMA, and motorsports. Over the past decade, Matt has focused heavily on the NBA and has worked with many established outlets on a variety of content

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