Newcastle 'make contact for Benjamin Sesko' as Alexander Isak transfer plans ramp up

Newcastle have reportedly made contact over a move for RB Leipzig forward Benjamin Sesko. The Magpies are on the lookout for a new frontman as they could lose Alexander Isak before the end of the summer transfer window.

Newcastle had been hoping to hold onto Isak, who has three years remaining on his contract at St James' Park. But a string of clubs have been linked with the 25-year-old and he has reportedly told his current employers that he wants to leave. Liverpool appear to be the most likely team to secure his services if he opts to stay in the Premier League, with Manchester United, Arsenal and Chelsea unlikely to pursue him.

According to the Daily Mail, Newcastle have watched Sesko for a long time and have made exploratory contact over a transfer.

The 22-year-old, who has been linked with a move to Arsenal this summer, bagged 21 goals and six assists in 45 appearances for Leipzig last season and is regarded as one of the most promising strikers in Europe.

Earlier this month, it was reported that Sesko was considering his options and was in talks with Manchester United over a move to Old Trafford.

The player still has four years on his contract at the Red Bull Arena after joining Leipzig from RB Salzburg two years ago. And Newcastle would have to stump up mega money to land the Slovenia international as his asking price has reportedly been set at £86million.

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Newcastle are also looking closer to home for a new forward and are said to be lining up a move for Brentford ace Yoane Wissa.

The 28-year-old enjoyed his best ever Premier League season last time around as he netted 19 goals in 35 league matches.

And a £35m deal for Wissa is expected to progress over the weekend, with the player leaving Brentford's pre-season training camp in Portugal earlier this week.

Newcastle enjoyed a strong Premier League campaign last term as they finished fifth to secure their return to the Champions League.

Eddie Howe's side also lifted the Carabao Cup trophy in March after defeating Liverpool 2-1 at Wembley, with Isak bagging his side's second goal of the game.

The Magpies are set to begin the 2025/26 Premier League season with a trip to Aston Villa in mid-August, before hosting Liverpool nine days later. They will then round off the opening month of the campaign by travelling to Leeds.