Newcastle Step Up Benjamin Sesko Pursuit as Big Yoane Wissa Transfer Hurdle Emerges

Magpies Circle Sesko While Brentford Dig in Over Wissa

With the Premier League season fast approaching, the transfer window has kicked into overdrive—particularly for Newcastle United. In a summer already rife with uncertainty following Alexander Isak’s declaration of intent to leave the club, the Magpies are now turning their gaze toward potential replacements. Among the leading candidates are Benjamin Sesko of RB Leipzig and Yoane Wissa of Brentford. But while progress is reportedly being made on one front, the other appears increasingly complicated.

The Situation: Isak’s Looming Departure Forces Newcastle’s Hand

Newcastle’s search for a striker has taken on a sense of urgency after Alexander Isak, their star forward, made it known he’s looking for a move away from St. James’ Park. Isak, who joined Newcastle with great fanfare, has quickly become one of the league’s most promising young attackers. But with interest mounting from clubs like Liverpool, and a £150 million price tag being floated, Newcastle are having to plan for a future without him.

Enter Benjamin Sesko.

The 22-year-old Slovenian striker currently plies his trade at RB Leipzig and has become a hot commodity following a prolific season in the Bundesliga, where he netted 21 goals. According to Sky Sports Germany, Newcastle have initiated talks with Sesko’s agent. However, contrary to some earlier reports, no verbal agreement has yet been reached. For now, it’s a cautious courtship, with Newcastle doing their due diligence before committing to a potentially massive transfer fee of around €80 million (£69.5m).

Yoane Wissa: A Complicated Proposition

Simultaneously, The I reports that Newcastle have also identified Yoane Wissa as a viable alternative or even potential partner up top. Wissa, the DR Congo international, was instrumental for Brentford last season, notching 19 goals across all competitions. His physicality, pace, and eye for goal have attracted Eddie Howe’s attention.

But Brentford aren’t keen to do business.

Not unless, that is, they can find a suitable replacement. With Bryan Mbeumo already having joined Manchester United this summer, Brentford are wary of losing another key attacking piece. The Bees are reportedly monitoring Celtic’s Daizen Maeda as a potential successor, but there’s no guarantee a deal will be struck in time. As such, they’re standing firm on Wissa for the time being. Their stance is simple: no replacement, no deal.

Transfer Fees and Strategic Positioning

From a financial standpoint, Newcastle are in a strong position—should they choose to cash in on Isak. With a valuation of £150m, his sale could generate ample capital to secure both Sesko and Wissa. The Slovenian alone would cost nearly half that amount, while Brentford might consider letting Wissa go for a figure closer to £30m ($40m).

This strategic leverage gives Newcastle an advantage in the market. While they aren’t known for reckless spending, the club’s ownership under the Public Investment Fund of Saudi Arabia has shown a willingness to invest heavily when it aligns with their long-term vision.

Why Sesko Makes Sense

Benjamin Sesko is not just a goal-scorer; he’s a modern-day striker. Tall, agile, and technically gifted, Sesko combines physical presence with finesse. His ability to press from the front and contribute to build-up play aligns perfectly with Howe’s tactical philosophy. Moreover, his age fits the club’s broader recruitment strategy: young, high-ceiling players who can grow into their potential within a sustainable team model.

Sesko’s Bundesliga performances have drawn comparisons to Erling Haaland—a player he ironically replaced at Red Bull Salzburg before making the leap to Leipzig. And like Haaland, Sesko’s skillset appears well-tailored for the rigors of Premier League football.

Wissa’s Appeal—and the Challenge Brentford Pose

Wissa, meanwhile, brings something different to the table. He’s more of a wide forward who can play centrally, offering tactical flexibility. His pace on the counter, work rate, and eye for goal make him an ideal fit in a system that thrives on transitions.

But Newcastle’s pursuit of Wissa will likely be dictated by Brentford’s transfer activity. The club has no intention of weakening their squad further unless a direct replacement is signed. That places Newcastle in a holding pattern unless they decide to meet Brentford’s demands while helping facilitate a deal for Maeda or another target.

The Bigger Picture for Newcastle

Newcastle United FC v Everton FC – Premier League

It’s not just about replacing goals—though Isak’s departure would certainly leave a massive void. Newcastle are preparing for a demanding season with European ambitions and domestic expectations weighing heavily. Eddie Howe knows that squad depth and versatility are vital.

The club has already taken steps to shore up its midfield and defense, but striking options remain thin beyond Callum Wilson, whose fitness issues are well documented. Securing Sesko or Wissa—or both—could provide the attacking stability needed to navigate a hectic campaign.

Timing Is Everything

Time, as always, is a key variable. With pre-season in full swing and the Premier League kickoff on the horizon, Newcastle will want their new arrivals embedded as quickly as possible. Tactical understanding, chemistry with teammates, and general acclimatization to Howe’s system all take time.

The club’s decision-making process will also hinge on how swiftly the Isak situation is resolved. If he stays, it changes the equation entirely. If he goes, it opens the floodgates for a more aggressive market push.

What’s Next?

Wolverhampton Wanderers FC v Brentford FC – Premier League

All eyes will now be on two things: whether Newcastle formalize their interest in Sesko with a concrete bid, and whether Brentford’s stance on Wissa softens in the coming weeks. Either scenario depends not just on Newcastle’s financial muscle, but on the dominoes that must fall elsewhere—most notably at Anfield and Celtic Park.

Whatever happens, the next few weeks promise to be busy at St. James’ Park. Whether Benjamin Sesko or Yoane Wissa—or both—arrive in black and white remains to be seen. But one thing’s for sure: Newcastle are not standing still.

They’re planning, positioning, and pushing—just as a club with ambitions of domestic and European glory should.