Newcastle target Benjamin Sesko as potential Alexander Isak replacement

Newcastle United have now shifted their focus to RB Leipzig star Banjamin Sesko, as speculation mounts on the potential departure of Swedish striker Alexander Isak amid Liverpool interest.

Isak has emerged as a prime transfer target for Premier League champions Liverpool, sparking speculation that manager Eddie Howe sent him home to “clear his head” as Newcastle depart for their pre-season tour in Singapore to face Arsenal in a friendly.

The Swedish international has been linked with a move to Anfield throughout the summer transfer window, though the Premier League champions seem to have shifted away from their earlier keen interest in the prolific forward.

Read more: Newcastle United forward Alexander Isak not in pre-season Asia tour squad

Liverpool, on Wednesday, confirmed the signing of Eintracht Frankfurt star Hugo Ekitike on a deal worth a staggering £79m, with £69m guaranteed and £10m in add-ons.

However, on the same day, Isak has reportedly informed Newcastle of his desire to pursue a move away this summer, amid significant interest from Liverpool, according to The Daily Mail.

The new development has prompted the Magpies to reconsider their options in the transfer market, with Callum Wilson already left after his contract expired in June.

According to journalist David Ornstein, Newcastle are now exploring the option of signing Sesko in case Isak eventually gets his wish to leave the club this summer.

Ornstein adds that the 22-year-old Sesko has caught Newcastle’s eye, though securing the Slovenian striker could face challenges due to financial complexities.

It is understood that Sesko’s camp rejected a proposal from a Saudi Pro League club earlier this week. Newcastle have shown interest in the striker since last summer.

Newcastle had a bid turned down for Brentford striker Yoane Wissa, though it is understood he was being considered as a secondary option behind Isak.

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To date, Alexander Isak has not submitted an official or formal transfer request, and although discussions about a new contract with Newcastle have occurred over the past few months, no agreement has been reached.

With three years remaining on his current deal, Newcastle holds a strong negotiating position, valuing the player at £150 million while maintaining he is not for sale.

Liverpool made an informal approach for Alexander Isak last week prior to signing Hugo Ekitike, and it’s believed they continue to hold him in high regard.

Meanwhile, Chelsea are not pursuing Isak, expressing full confidence in their current strikers for the upcoming Premier League and Champions League seasons.

It’s still early, but rumors surrounding both Isak and Sesko have gained momentum in recent days, and movement involving these two forwards wouldn’t come as a surprise.

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