Newcastle are considering a potential move for RB Leipzig forward Benjamin Sesko as uncertainty grows around the future of Alexander Isak.
The Swedish striker has not joined the squad for their pre-season tour of Asia, with the club citing a “minor thigh injury,” though speculation over a possible move to Liverpool continues.
Sesko, who had previously been on Arsenal’s radar before they turned their attention to Sporting’s Viktor Gyokeres, is only likely to be pursued by Newcastle if Isak leaves this summer.
The Slovenia international attracted interest earlier in the window from Liverpool, Manchester United and Chelsea, but nothing materialised.
The 22-year-old enjoyed a productive season in the Bundesliga, scoring 13 goals in 33 appearances.
However, Newcastle’s interest is understood to be conditional, with the club not expected to make a formal move unless Isak departs.
Team-mates have voiced their concerns over potential departures. Dan Burn said that losing a key player at this point in the summer would “upset a tight-knit group,” while club captain Bruno Guimaraes insisted the squad wants to hold onto its stars.
“He is a top striker, his [record over the] last three seasons speaks by itself, he’s a top player,” Guimaraes said of Isak. “But as far as I know he just stayed there because of his injury, his treatment with the club.”
Isak was a standout performer last season, scoring 27 goals in 42 appearances across all competitions.
His exit would leave Newcastle short up front, especially after Callum Wilson’s departure on a free transfer earlier this month.
Will Osula, who netted twice in 19 appearances last term, is the only other senior centre-forward currently available to Eddie Howe.
Newcastle’s transfer window has yet to deliver significant reinforcements despite their return to Champions League football.
Joao Pedro and Liam Delap opted to join Chelsea, and Hugo Ekitike chose a switch to Liverpool. The only major addition to the squad so far has been Anthony Elanga, who arrived from Nottingham Forest for £55 million.
Meanwhile, the club remains interested in Yoane Wissa, with the Brentford forward having left the team’s pre-season camp in Portugal, a sign that a move could be on the cards regardless of whether Isak stays.
