URGENT NEWS
Newcastle United have confirmed interest to sign “one of the best strikers in the world” which many teams have overlooked and could be a big bargain for the club
With the June 30 financial deadline now behind them, Newcastle United are entering a more composed phase of the transfer window. The club needed over £50 million to comply with Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR), which led to a flurry of sales at the end of last month. Notably, Yankuba Minteh’s £30 million transfer to Brighton & Hove Albion and Elliot Anderson’s £35 million move to Nottingham Forest provided crucial funds. These sales have enabled head coach Eddie Howe to focus on strengthening his squad for the upcoming season.
Coincidentally, Newcastle’s compensation agreement with Manchester United, finalized just before the PSR deadline, allowed Dan Ashworth to commence his new role as sporting director at Old Trafford. Newcastle received a fee of around £7 million for this transition.
One of Newcastle’s most significant moves in this transfer window has been the unexpected appointment of Paul Mitchell as their new sporting director. Initially indicating he was looking elsewhere, Mitchell’s decision to join Newcastle is seen as a major coup. The 42-year-old former Monaco sporting director was previously considered for a role at Manchester United earlier this year. His extensive knowledge and connections across Europe, bolstered by his experience with the Red Bull network, are expected to be invaluable as Newcastle transitions into a multi-club structure, a direction strongly supported by their owners, the Saudi Arabian Public Investment Fund.
Mitchell’s appointment signals a shift from Ashworth’s model, emphasizing the importance of a robust European network. Johannes Spors, of 777 Partners, was also a contender for the sporting director role due to his multi-club expertise, highlighting the club’s strategic focus.
As the new season approaches, Newcastle’s primary goal is to retain their key players. Despite some interest, an exit for Swedish striker Alexander Isak was never a serious consideration. Chelsea’s informal approach for Isak, which did not include Nicolas Jackson in any proposal, did not progress far. Isak remains a crucial part of Howe’s plans.
In contrast, Anthony Gordon’s situation was more fluid. Sources suggest Newcastle offered him to Liverpool for nearly £85 million, though Liverpool did not pursue the deal further. Gordon, who was keen on a return to his boyhood club, is now expected to refocus on the upcoming season with Newcastle.
Another key player, Bruno Guimaraes, is settled at Newcastle despite the expiration of his £100 million release clause. While Manchester City showed interest, they did not intend to trigger the clause. Instead, they might consider a bid around £80 million. Arsenal also appreciates Guimaraes but is currently looking at more affordable midfield options like Real Sociedad’s Martin Zubimendi.
Newcastle’s pursuit of a new striker continues, particularly if Callum Wilson departs. Wilson has drawn interest from West Ham United and clubs in Saudi Arabia. Dominic Calvert-Lewin was a target, but personal terms could not be agreed upon. Newcastle have now turned their attention to Jonathan David, a highly regarded striker, with competition from Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur.
Additionally, Newcastle is in the market for a right-winger or wide forward. Their attempts to sign Michael Olise and include Nottingham Forest’s Anthony Elanga in the Anderson deal were unsuccessful. Other potential targets include Jarrod Bowen from West Ham, Leicester City’s Kasey McAteer, Chelsea’s Noni Madueke, and Leeds United’s Crysencio Summerville. Strengthening this position is critical, especially with Miguel Almiron attracting interest from Saudi clubs, though reports of negotiations with Steven Gerrard’s Al-Ettifaq are unfounded.
Defensively, Newcastle is also seeking a new center-back, preferably a right-sided one. Despite a failed bid for West Ham’s Max Kilman, options like AC Milan’s Malick Thiaw remain on their radar. They have not pursued Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi, despite speculation.
Finally, the right-back position is another area of interest. With Kieran Trippier potentially entering his final year and Bayern Munich showing interest, Newcastle may be open to offers. Tino Livramento is seen as a promising successor, enhancing the club’s defensive options.
As Newcastle United moves forward, their strategic signings and retention of key players will be crucial in navigating the upcoming season and achieving their long-term ambitions.