Newcastle United face competition from Manchester United in the race to sign Red Bull Salzburg striker Benjamin Sesko, according to reliable journalist Fabrizio Romano.

The Magpies have struggled to sign a striker this summer, with Hugo Ekitike the closest they came to landing one after the club agreed a £33m fee with Reims.

However, with the player’s agent adding a number of 'ridiculous' requests during talks, the Tyneside outfit pulled out of negotiations and the 20-year-old went on to join Paris Saint-Germain on a season-long loan.

Eddie Howe remains active in his search of a new striker, with the club keen on securing a signing before their Premier League opener against Nottingham Forest on 6 August.

The Latest: Romano provides Sesko transfer latest

Romano has shared an update on Newcastle transfer target Sesko, with other clubs now interested in signing the youngster.

Taking to Twitter, the journalist claimed: “Manchester United are well informed on Salzburg talent Benjamin Šeško. He’s one of the players monitored, considered ‘really talented’ - but it’s not imminent or advanced deal as of now. #MUFC

“Man Utd are aware of Šeško as other clubs are informed too, including Newcastle.”

The Verdict: Great long-term signing

In 24 league games last season, the 19-year-old scored five goals and produced three assists, bringing his overall tally to 12 goals for the Austrian champions.

Whilst not the most sensational of records, the centre-forward looks sharp and ready for the new campaign, after he scored the opening goal for Salzburg as they kicked off the new Bundesliga season with a 3-0 win over Austria Vienna last Friday.

At just 19 years of age, the player has already made an impressive 13 appearances for the Slovenia national team. Also, he is renowned for his searing pace, having clocked an in-game speed of 36.11 km/h in 2021.

If Newcastle were to make a big push for Sesko, they would be prioritising a striker with a view to achieving long-term success, rather than going for a short-term addition who would more likely bring instant results.