Manchester United and Newcastle's pursuit of Benjamin Sesko has been given a boost, as RB Leipzig's Lois Openda will reportedly not be heading to Sunderland. Both the Red Devils and the Magpies have shown keen interest in Sesko recently.

Amidst this speculation, it was claimed that Openda, who has previously been linked with United, was on Sunderland's wish list. If Sunderland had managed to secure Openda, it would have made acquiring Sesko considerably more difficult, as Leipzig would likely be hesitant to part with both their forwards in August.

However, in a favourable twist for United and Eddie Howe's team, Sunderland are reportedly not interested in the Belgian forward. Sky Sports confirmed that the Black Cats, despite being active in the transfer market, will not approach Openda.

With him staying put, Leipzig may be more receptive to offers for Sesko. Newcastle were the first to table a bid for the striker, offering just under £70million, but Leipzig rejected the offer, hoping for a bidding war among interested clubs. The Slovenian sensation netted a remarkable 22 goals in all competitions last season, earning him the reputation as one of Europe's hottest prospects.

United have faced a series of transfer disappointments this window, missing out on Viktor Gyokeres, Liam Delap and Hugo Ekitike who have been snapped up by Arsenal, Chelsea and Liverpool respectively. Despite these blows, Ruben Amorim has managed to strengthen his offensive line-up with the acquisitions of Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo.

Amorim is openly scouting for a striker to spearhead United's attack. Last season saw United notch up a paltry 44 Premier League goals, a tally only surpassing Everton and the relegated trio: Leicester City, Ipswich Town and Southampton.

In the opposite direction, United are eager to part ways with Antony, Alejandro Garnacho and Jadon Sancho, following Marcus Rashford's loan to Barcelona. In stark contrast, Rasmus Hojlund is digging his heels in, hoping to stay and fight for his position in the team.

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Despite some moments of genius, the Danish striker hasn't quite hit the mark expected after his £72m transfer from Atalanta in the summer of 2023. Hojlund has made his stance clear, stating: "I think my plan is very clear and that's for me to stay and fight for my spot, whatever happens. Competition is fine with me, it sharpens me.

"I'm more than ready. I'm feeling sharp, so I'm welcoming everything that comes. I think it's good with competition and it only sharpens the team.

"I'm still very young. I think people forget that sometimes. I'm only 22. Obviously, not every striker is scoring 100 goals at the age of 22. But I've learned a lot, I think you can see in my game."

In the Premier League Summer Series, United were held to a gripping 2-2 draw by Everton on Sunday. Amorim's squad twice took the lead with impressive strikes from Bruno Fernandes and Mason Mount, but the Toffees showed resilience, clawing back each time thanks to efforts from Iliman Ndiaye and an unfortunate own goal by Ayden Heaven.

The Red Devils are now gearing up for their next challenge, hosting Fiorentina on Saturday at home.