Newcastle ready to go head-to-head with Manchester United for 6ft4in striker with £42m release clause

Newcastle United have reportedly reignited their interest in Manchester United-linked forward Benjamin Sesko, as per The Shields Gazette.

The Red Devils are believed to have sent their scouts to watch the Slovenian, who has 26 senior caps for his country, in action on Sunday as RB Leipzig fell to a 3-2 defeat at the hands of Bundesliga leaders Bayer Leverkusen.

Sesko, 20, has notched seven goals in 24 appearances across all competitions this term. He’ll be looking to aid his side in the second half of the campaign when they take on European giants Real Madrid in the last-16 of the Champions League, as well as claiming a top-four spot to ensure they’re in the competition again next season.

Goal claims that the highly-rated youngster has a release clause included in his contract worth £42 million. It can be triggered as early as this summer when the Magpies and United are expected to lock horns battling for Sesko’s signature.

Reinforcements needed for PL rivals

Erik ten Hag is keen to upgrade his frontline options after a slow start to Premier League life for Rasmus Hojlund (two goals in 16 outings), along with Marcus Rashford and Anthony Martial not being in their sharpest form over the past months.

Similarly, for Newcastle, their only recognised No.9s are Alexander Isak and veteran Callum Wilson, the latter of which has struggled with frequent injury woes.

Both sides have overseen lacklustre starts to the season and are in line to miss out on the Champions League places despite occupying the third and fourth spots in 2022/2023.