It’s been a transfer window to forget for Newcastle United for numerous reasons. Aside from the £55 million signing of Anthony Elanga from Nottingham Forest and the loan deal for goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale, Eddie Howe has seen very few reinforcements ahead of a crucial campaign, which includes a return to the Champions League.

That, coupled with Liverpool’s ongoing pursuit of star striker Alexander Isak, paints a fairly bleak picture for the Magpies. The countless rejections only serve to rub salt in the wounds as Newcastle's transfer plans suffer setback after setback.

The latest comes in the form of Benjamin Sesko. The Slovenia international emerged as the primary candidate to replace Isak at St James’ Park last week, following failed pursuits of Hugo Ekitike and Joao Pedro, who joined Liverpool and Chelsea respectively.

Despite lodging a formal bid to RB Leipzig that matched their valuation, the emergence of Manchester United in the race for his signature always pointed to one likely outcome. Now, it appears Sesko has chosen the North West over the North East, and the Red Devils are moving quickly to strike a deal with Leipzig, having reportedly secured the player’s full commitment.

It’s back to the drawing board for Howe and co. as they look to resolve Isak’s future sooner rather than later. But this latest snub will be an especially bitter pill to swallow on Tyneside, given Manchester United’s........

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