Just in- Newcastle now moving to sign £44m striker after missing out on Liam Delap, compared to Edinson Cavani
Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe is actively pursuing the addition of a new striker during the summer transfer window, but his plans have already encountered a frustrating obstacle.
The Magpies had initially identified Liam Delap as a prime candidate to bolster their attacking ranks. The promising English forward, who was on loan at Ipswich Town last season, became available at a bargain price due to a £30 million release clause that was triggered following his parent club’s relegation from the Premier League. That clause immediately caught the attention of Newcastle’s recruitment team, with reports from iNews suggesting that Howe was even prepared to adapt his tactical setup to accommodate the young striker’s unique strengths.
However, despite Newcastle’s early interest and the club’s willingness to structure the team around Delap’s profile, their pursuit appears to have hit a dead end. Chelsea have now surged ahead in the race to sign the 21-year-old, leaving Newcastle to reassess their options.
Magpies Turn Their Attention to Moise Kean After Delap Disappointment
With Delap seemingly out of reach, Newcastle have swiftly shifted focus to another forward target – Moise Kean. According to Italian outlet Calciomercato, the Magpies have now expressed significant interest in the Italy international and are stepping up efforts to secure his signature.
Kean is coming off a sensational season with Fiorentina, where he enjoyed a breakout year, registering an impressive 25 goals in 44 appearances across all competitions. His prolific form has not gone unnoticed across Europe, and Newcastle are now said to be “moving with greater determination” in their attempt to lure him to St. James’ Park. The 25-year-old striker has often drawn comparisons to Uruguayan legend Edinson Cavani due to his aggressive style, sharp movement, and instinctive finishing.
However, Newcastle aren’t alone in the chase. Serie A giants Napoli have reportedly made an enquiry for the Fiorentina frontman, and competition could become even fiercer in the coming weeks.
Fiorentina Facing Challenges to Keep Their Star Striker
The task of retaining Kean has become more complicated for Fiorentina. Not only does his contract contain a €52 million (approximately £44 million) release clause – active until July 15 – but the club has also just lost their head coach Raffaele Palladino. The manager’s departure could play a major role in Kean’s decision-making, potentially increasing the likelihood of a move away from Florence this summer.
Kean, who wears the No. 20 shirt for La Viola, may now feel the time is right to take the next step in his career, particularly with Premier League clubs circling and the promise of Champions League football on the table.
Manchester United Also Eyeing a Move for Kean
Newcastle’s hopes of landing Kean could also be challenged domestically. According to SportMediaSet, Manchester United are also prepared to activate the striker’s release clause as they look to revamp their underperforming attack. The Red Devils are reportedly disappointed with the goal return from Rasmus Højlund and Joshua Zirkzee, who managed just six Premier League goals between them last season.
United’s interest adds another layer of urgency for Newcastle, who will need to act quickly if they wish to avoid missing out on a second striker target this summer. However, the Magpies may have a trump card.
Champions League Football Could Sway Kean’s Decision
One major advantage Newcastle hold over their competitors – including Manchester United – is their qualification for the UEFA Champions League. This prestigious platform not only boosts the club’s attractiveness to potential signings but also offers Kean the chance to showcase his talents on Europe’s biggest stage.
With United missing out on the competition and other suitors such as Napoli also not guaranteed European football, Newcastle may be in pole position to convince Kean that his future lies on Tyneside. Nevertheless, with the release clause active only until mid-July, time is of the essence.
Eddie Howe now finds himself in a familiar situation: needing to act decisively in a fiercely competitive transfer market. If the Magpies are serious about bolstering their frontline with a proven goalscorer, a move for Moise Kean could define their summer transfer window.