Man United, Newcastle engaged in 'transfer battle' for Bundesliga forward who is not Benjamin Sesko

Manchester United and Newcastle United are reportedly engaged in a transfer battle for Stuttgart striker Nick Woltemade. 

The two Premier League clubs are already fighting to secure their signature of RB Leipzig forward Benjamin Sesko. 

Man United are looking to steal a march on the Magpies, having made Sesko a priority target in their search for a new number nine. 

While Man United are keen to sign the Leipzig star, they are also said to be admirers of another Bundesliga striker. 

© Imago

Man United, Newcastle battling for Woltemade

According to The Sun, Manchester United have earmarked Stuttgart's Woltemade as a potential transfer target. 

The Red Devils are said to be locked in another transfer battle with Newcastle, who have also emerged as a contender for Woltemade's services.

German champions Bayern Munich were understood to be the frontrunners in the race for Woltemade, but there is a possibility that they could cool their interest following the recent addition of Luis Diaz from Liverpool.

The report suggests that Stuttgart are demanding at least £40m to part ways with a player who is under contract until the summer of 2028.

Woltemade is garnering plenty of attention after enjoying a productive debut campaign with Stuttgart, netting 17 goals in 33 appearances, including five goals in the club's triumphant DFB-Pokal campaign. 

© Imago

Why are Man United and Newcastle targeting forwards? 

Man United and Newcastle are both keen to bolster their striker options before the transfer window shuts on September 1.

Ruben Amorim is looking for a dependable forward who can replace Rasmus Hojlund as the club's first-choice striker. 

They have been linked with Aston Villa's Ollie Watkins, but the focus now appears to be on securing a deal for Sesko.

It is unclear whether they will pursue a deal for Woltemade if they are successful in their efforts to sign the Slovenia international.

As for Newcastle, they were already on the lookout for a number nine to replace Callum Wilson following his departure at the end of last season.

However, they are now facing the prospect of finding a suitable replacement for Alexander Isak, who has reportedly agreed personal terms with Liverpool. 

The Magpies are reluctant to sell the Sweden international, but a big-money sale cannot be ruled out before the transfer window closes for business.