Man Utd draw up two-striker shortlist if Newcastle win Benjamin Sesko race

Manchester United are desperate to sign a new striker this summer and have two back-up options if they fail to land Benjamin Sesko. RB Leipzig starSesko is their top target, but they are facing stiff competition for his signature from Newcastle.

The Magpies have made an improved offer worth £70million for Sesko, while United are yet to officially bid for the 22-year-old. Sesko netted 21 goals in 45 appearances across all competitions last season.

According to a new report from the Athletic, United are also considering potential alternatives to Sesko if Newcastle win the race with Chelsea forward Nicolas Jackson on their radar. Chelsea are said to be open to selling Jackson this summer after signing Liam Delap and Joao Pedro, but only if they receive an 'acceptable proposal'.

French outlet L'Equipe, meanwhile, are reporting that Paris Saint-Germain's Randal Kolo Muani is another option United are considering. Juventus were the frontrunners for Muani, but it is claimed that deal has now stalled.

As a result, United could now make a move for the 26-year-old, although Tottenham are also said to be interested in Muani.

READ MORE: Transfer news LIVE: Newcastle table new Sesko bid, Isak to Liverpool update, Man Utd latest

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The news comes after United captain Bruno Fernandes urged the club to make more signings before the new season starts. "It’s improving, but it’s not where we want it to be," Fernandes said after a 2-2 draw with Everton in pre-season.

"It’s a game of football, there’s always passion there. Whatever happens, happens. There was nothing spicy there, it’s normal, it is part of the game.

"It’s been positive [the US tour] and it’s good to create a bond with the players. We looked a bit lazy today and we need to change that.

"I don’t want to have a dig at anyone, but I think the club is doing the best they can in terms of all the financial situations they talk about. I don’t know about it, I’m not involved in that. But obviously it was crystal clear we needed more competition for the players that were here.

"We needed more quality to get everyone to step up a bit more and to have more to do to get into the starting line-up. I think that’s what the club and the manager are trying to do and hopefully we can get one or two players more to help with that."

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