‘Fake news’ - Sunderland twist gives Newcastle United boost in Benjamin Sesko pursuit

Sunderland manager Regis Le Bris has ruled out a move for RB Leipzig striker Lois Openda - an admission that gives Newcastle United a boost in their Benjamin Sesko pursuit.

Sky Sports Germany claimed over the weekend that the Black Cats were planning an ambitious move for the Belgian international. Openda has forged a fruitful partnership with Sesko in recent seasons.

The duo scored 34 goals between them last season and have attracted Premier League interest after Leipzig missed out on European football. Newcastle have identified Sesko as their No.1 striker target but face stiff competition from Manchester United.

Newcastle United transfer tug-of-war

The Magpies are awaiting a response from Sesko on his preferred destination after submitting a formal offer worth around £65million. As it stands, Man United are yet to make a bid.

Sesko’s decision is likely to impact the Alexander Isak saga that has dominated the news agenda on Tyneside. The Swede returned to training at the club’s Benton base earlier today after bailing on the pre-season tour of Asia.

Liverpool have already seen one offer rejected - and deemed “derisory” by the Toon hierarchy. However, if Newcastle were to land Sesko, the Reds would be more confident with a second approach.

Sunderland dismiss Lois Openda talk

As Newcastle’s fiercest rivals, Sunderland signing Leipzig’s other striker would deal a bitter blow to their Sesko hopes. The Black Cats have spent £130million this summer to give themselves the best possible chance of Premier League survival.

Openda - as a seasoned international with Champions League experience - would have been Sunderland’s boldest move yet. However, manager Le Bris has downplayed the speculation as “fake news”, with the Wearsiders tipped to sign Chelsea youngster Marc Guiu on loan.

“I think it’s fake news, it’s possible on social media,” Le Bris said after Sunderland’s pre-season defeat to Real Betis. “There is nothing at the moment. We try to improve the squad with better players - but first of all, we have players and we have to trust them.”

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