“GOODNEWS”- Newcastle have jumped in confirm major hijack on Aston Villa target in the “last few hours”
Newcastle United are reportedly making a strategic move to hijack a high-profile transfer target this summer, with Aston Villa already bidding £21.1 million for the player’s services. The Magpies are on the lookout for reinforcements across the pitch, with manager Eddie Howe particularly keen to bolster the center of his defense due to injury concerns. One of the standout options is Barcelona’s Ronald Araujo, a player attracting interest from Premier League heavyweights Manchester United and Manchester City as well.
In another potential transfer, Newcastle is said to be preparing a near £30 million bid for Burnley’s goalkeeper James Trafford. The 21-year-old has garnered attention with his impressive performances since joining Burnley permanently from Manchester City last summer. His arrival could provide strong competition for current first-choice goalkeeper Nick Pope, who struggled with injuries throughout the 2023/24 season.
Additionally, Juventus midfielder Arthur Melo has emerged as a target for Newcastle. The Brazilian, however, had a challenging loan spell at Liverpool in 2023, making just one appearance and not featuring in any league matches. Despite this, he is reportedly available for £17 million and is eager to return to the Premier League.
Newcastle is also competing with Bayern Munich for Mainz’s talented right-sided midfielder Brajan Gruda. The 20-year-old is available for £42 million this transfer window, making him a significant potential acquisition.
According to Gazzetta dello Sport, Newcastle has entered the race to sign Lazio midfielder Matteo Guendouzi, aiming to outmaneuver Aston Villa, who have already made a £21.1 million bid for the former Arsenal player. Guendouzi could be a valuable addition to Newcastle’s squad, given his experience in the Premier League, where he made 57 appearances and played 82 times for Arsenal in total. Despite being only 25, Guendouzi has been highly regarded for years. In 2020, Gary Neville praised him, stating, “Since the moment he came into the team, Guendouzi has looked like a big character and a leader. He’s always on the ball, showing great courage to play and demanding more from his teammates.”
Guendouzi’s potential to enhance Newcastle’s midfield is significant. His passing accuracy of 85.5% in Serie A last season showcases his technical prowess. Securing his signature ahead of Villa would be a notable victory for Newcastle, especially as both clubs vie for European football next season. The Frenchman’s presence would bring both grit and skill to Newcastle’s midfield, solidifying their aspirations for the upcoming campaign.