Newcastle United are hoping to make Benjamin Sesko their third signing of the summer, but Manchester United could prevent that from happening.
The Magpies have endured a frustrating summer transfer window so far, with just two players joining the Newcastle United squad.
Anthony Elanga became one of Newcastle’s most expensive signings ever at £55million, while Aaron Ramsdale joined on loan from Southampton with an option to buy.
Newcastle want Sesko too, as they attempt to bring in a striker. However, their pursuit of the Slovenian could be hijacked by Manchester United. They have offered £4million less than Newcastle, but the problem is that Sesko prefers a move to Man United.
With less than a month to go before the summer transfer window closes, Eddie Howe has plenty of business to do and not a lot of time to do it. According to the i Paper, Newcastle want at least three more signings before the window slams shut at 7pm on 1st September.
Newcastle United want a striker
As a priority, the i Paper state that Newcastle United are looking to sign at least one striker.
That is irrespective of what happens to Alexander Isak, who wants to leave the club. Newcastle still need to replace Callum Wilson, which is why they have been targeting Yoane Wissa.
Newcastle could still get Wissa, who is keen to leave Brentford this summer.
If Newcastle do end up selling Isak, there will be a need for another striker to replace him. That is why Sesko is a target, but Man United could scupper that plan.
- Who is Yoane Wissa? Newcastle United’s £55m Alexander Isak replacement
A new centre-back is on Newcastle’s radar
For the third transfer window in a row, Newcastle want and need a new centre-back.
They are searching for a right-sided centre-back who can be Fabian Schar’s long-term replacement at St James’ Park.
Newcastle tried to buy Dean Huijsen earlier this summer, but he chose to go to Real Madrid instead. While Newcastle have frustratingly missed out on plenty of targets, Huijsen cannot really be blamed for his decision.
Marc Guehi is a target for Newcastle again, while other players who have been linked include Giorgio Scalvini and Malick Thiaw.
Eddie Howe looking to buy Sean Longstaff replacement
In terms of squad depth, it is essential that Newcastle sign a centre-midfielder before the transfer window shuts.
Sean Longstaff joined Leeds and is yet to be replaced. That means Eddie Howe only has five senior centre-midfielders as opposed to six.
To make matters worse, Joe Willock has an injury. While he is not going to be out long-term, it highlights how fragile Newcastle’s midfield is. As it stands, Lewis Miley is the only backup that the Magpies have got.
Newcastle have looked at Jack Rudoni as a possible signing, with the 24-year-old on the back of a very impressive year with Coventry City.
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