Manchester United are keen to complete a deal with RB Leipzig after Benjamin Cesc made it clear he would prefer a move to the Old Trafford club over Newcastle, according to the PA news agency.
The 22-year-old striker has been the subject of intense competition as Premier League clubs look to improve their attacking options ahead of the new season.
Newcastle made the first move by responding to the initial rejection of the offer by offering an improved €82.5m (£71.9m) plus €2.5m (£2.2m) in add-ons.
Ruben Amorim's Red Devils seized the moment and made a rival a €75m (£65.4m) bid with an option of an extra €10m (£8.7m), giving the player the chance to make his choice.
According to PA, Manchester United believe Cesko would prefer to join them and are now seeking to reach an agreement with Leipzig over the terms of a deal.
The Slovenia international, who scored 21 goals in 45 appearances in all competitions last season, has been on the Red Devils' radar for a long time, dating back to his move from Domžale to RB Salzburg in 2019.
The Old Trafford club favour him over Aston Villa's Ollie Watkins, with Liam Delap and Hugo Ekitiku also linked with their summer moves.
Newcastle have shown interest in both players and Cesko's absence would be another blow to a summer of disappointment as they try to strengthen their squad.
The potential setback could also impact the situation with star Alexander Isak.
The Sweden international missed Newcastle's Asian tour with a thigh injury the club described as “minor” but it soon emerged he was unwell and training with his former club Real Sociedad.
Magpies manager Eddie Howe revealed he only learned of Isak's whereabouts through the media before the striker returned to Tyneside this week.
The 25-year-old has scored 23 goals
Sourse: breakingnews.ie
