The transfer saga involving Benjamin Sesko, Newcastle and Manchester United has taken a fresh twist, it has been reported.
This summer window has been dominated by top strikers, with Sesko, Viktor Gyokeres and Alexander Isak all linked with big-money moves.
The Gyokeres saga is now over, with the Sporting Lisbon striker joining Arsenal last month.
Sesko has taken centre stage in recent days, with both Newcastle and United submitting bids to sign him from RB Leipzig.
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According to The Guardian, United are 'increasingly confident' that they will win the race, having launched an initial bid of £65.4 million plus £8.7m in add-ons.
Sesko was not been included in Leipzig's squad for the pre-season friendly against Atalanta and he now looks increasingly likely to have played his last game for the club.
Whether he is next in action for Newcastle or United remains to be seen.
According to Sky Sports Germany's Florian Plettenberg, there is set to be a 'showdown in Leipzig' today as Sesko prepares to make a final decision over his future.
It is claimed that representatives from both interested clubs are still present in the German city.
Plettenberg adds that United remain in pole position, with Sesko's preference to move to Old Trafford.
However, Ruben Amorim's side are yet to reach a final agreement with Leipzig, meaning Newcastle remain on standby over sealing a potential move themselves.
The outcome of the saga will, of course, have a potential impact on reigning Premier League champions Liverpool.
The Reds saw a £110 million bid rejected for Newcastle star Isak last week, but if the Magpies can seal a deal for Sesko, it may encourage them to return to the table with a much-improved bid.
Liverpool have already sealed an initial £69 million deal for Hugo Ekitike from Frankfurt but want to further strengthen their attacking options.
Topics: Transfers, Premier League, RB Leipzig, Manchester United, Football, Newcastle United, Ruben Amorim, Alexander Isak
Ryan Smart