Newcastle United’s Nightmare Transfer Window Continues as Benjamin Sesko Joins the Growing List of Rejections

For Newcastle United, the 2025 summer transfer window has been nothing short of a nightmare. As anticipation grew over what many believed would be a window of marquee signings, reality has been harsh. Repeatedly turned down by players across Europe, the Magpies have faced rejection after rejection despite submitting multiple bids and engaging in serious negotiations.

The most recent blow came in the form of Benjamin Sesko, the highly rated RB Leipzig striker, who decided to join Manchester United instead of Newcastle. What stings even more is the fact that the Tyneside club reportedly offered more money to both player and club. Still, the Slovenian international opted for Old Trafford, citing United’s project and stature as decisive factors.

In a summer that was supposed to be about building on last season’s success, Newcastle instead find themselves licking wounds and reevaluating their entire approach to recruitment.

A Summer of Setbacks at St James’ Park

Newcastle did everything they could to secure Sesko. They put forward an offer believed to be in excess of 82 million euros including add-ons, surpassing Manchester United proposal of 65 million pounds with a further 9 million in potential bonuses. Leipzig were willing to accept both bids, but ultimately left the decision to the player himself. Sesko chose United.

This decision may prove to be pivotal for Newcastle, who were preparing for life without Alexander Isak. The Swedish forward has reportedly handed in a transfer request and has been linked strongly with a move to Liverpool. Newcastle had turned down an initial bid from the Reds, which was believed to be in the region of 110 million pounds. Isak remains with the club for now, but the writing on the wall is clear. The plan was to cash in on him and bring in Sesko. With that door now firmly shut, Newcastle’s recruitment team has been forced back to square one.

Adding to the complications is the lack of a permanent sporting director at the club. Decision making has become increasingly fragmented, and there seems to be little cohesion or clarity in the transfer strategy. For a club competing in both the Premier League and Champions League next season, this kind of uncertainty is hardly ideal.

A Long List of Rejections

Sesko is only the latest in a growing list of players who have turned down Newcastle this summer. The list reads like a team sheet of missed opportunities. James Trafford chose to stay with Manchester City despite initial interest. Hugo Ekitike, once heavily linked with a move to Tyneside, opted to continue his development in Germany with Eintracht Frankfurt. Xavi Simons, considered one of Europe’s brightest midfield talents, rejected overtures from Newcastle as well.

Joao Pedro, who was high on Eddie Howe’s list, decided to stay at Brighton. Bryan Mbeumo is another player who was seen as an ideal addition to Newcastle’s frontline, yet talks did not progress. Dean Huijsen and Matheus Cunha were both approached but declined. Mohammed Kudus, a player admired for his versatility and flair, also decided against the move. Even Liam Delap, a prospect for the future, said no.

These are not just individual rejections. They represent a broader issue that Newcastle need to address. Whether it is geography, the perception of the club’s project, or uncertainty around the manager’s long-term future, something is causing top players to hesitate. London-based clubs, despite having weaker offers, often have an edge due to location and lifestyle advantages.

Where Does Newcastle Go From Here?

With time still left in the window, Newcastle are not entirely out of options. Talks have reignited for Brentford’s Yoane Wissa. Brentford had initially been reluctant to sell, but their stance has softened in recent days. However, even that deal is proving tricky as Wissa is attracting interest from several clubs including ones in France and Germany.

The club has already signed Anthony Elanga for 55 million pounds and brought in Aaron Ramsdale on loan, but these deals are yet to convince fans who were expecting world class additions.

Eddie Howe is believed to be growing increasingly frustrated behind the scenes. His system and style rely on intensity and depth. Without the right reinforcements, particularly up front, it will be difficult for Newcastle to remain competitive across multiple competitions. The fear now is that even if reinforcements do arrive, they might not be of the calibre initially targeted.

There are also concerns about the club’s adherence to financial regulations. After significant investment over the past few seasons, Newcastle are being careful not to breach any profit and sustainability rules. That makes any big move dependent on sales, especially one as significant as Isak.

Final Thoughts

For a club that had risen so quickly under new ownership, this summer has brought a brutal dose of reality. Newcastle have the money and ambition, but they are learning that is not always enough to land elite players. Reputation, location, and stability all play a part, and right now, Newcastle seem to be lacking in at least two of those areas.

The rejection from Benjamin Sesko was not just about missing out on a talented striker. It exposed a bigger issue, Newcastle’s ability to compete with the established elite is still in its infancy. There is no reason to panic just yet. One or two smart signings could turn the narrative around. However, if things continue as they are, this summer could go down as one of the most disappointing in the club’s recent history.