Newcastle considering move for star Frank wants to sign for Tottenham, and it’s not Mbeumo
Staying true to their recent transfer strategy of targeting direct Premier League rivals, Newcastle United—backed by the financial muscle of the Public Investment Fund (PIF)—are reportedly considering a bold move to sign another standout talent from within the English top flight. The Magpies, determined to bolster their squad this summer, have set their sights on a technically gifted attacking midfielder who could bring both flair and much-needed creativity to Eddie Howe’s evolving project.
Newcastle Ramp Up Pursuit of Elanga and Trafford
With the summer transfer window heating up, Newcastle have wasted no time in kickstarting their recruitment drive. The free signing of promising youngster Antonio Cordero signaled an early intent to get business done swiftly. However, that deal was merely the opening act. Now, the club are intensifying their efforts to secure moves for two long-term targets—Anthony Elanga of Nottingham Forest and Burnley’s James Trafford.
Both players are seen as smart investments with the potential to make an immediate impact at St James’ Park. Elanga, a dynamic winger with pace to burn and Premier League experience, has been on Newcastle’s radar for over a year. With their need for a new right-wing option widely known, especially after missing out on Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo—who is now expected to join Manchester United—the Swedish international would be a highly logical addition. He would not only provide competition for Jacob Murphy, but also add vital squad depth, an area Newcastle found themselves sorely lacking during their last Champions League campaign.
Goalkeeper James Trafford, meanwhile, is being eyed as part of the long-term vision between the posts. The Burnley shot-stopper, still young but already tested in the Premier League, is believed to be a player who can eventually succeed Nick Pope while also offering strong depth in the immediate term.
Brentford Target Resurfaces as PIF Eyes Damsgaard
However, even with those deals in the pipeline, Newcastle’s summer business looks far from finished. The Magpies’ recruitment team, reportedly operating with a sense of purpose and ruthlessness this window, have now turned their gaze back to Brentford following the disappointment of missing out on Mbeumo.
According to Caught Offside, PIF is now seriously evaluating a move for Mikkel Damsgaard, the Danish playmaker who starred at Euro 2020 and has slowly found his rhythm again in the Premier League. Brentford, understandably, are reluctant to lose one of their standout midfielders, but every player has their price—and for Damsgaard, that figure is believed to be around €50 million (£42 million).
Tottenham Also Monitoring Situation Amid Frank Links
Interestingly, Newcastle may face stiff competition for Damsgaard’s signature. Tottenham Hotspur are also reportedly monitoring the situation, especially with manager Thomas Frank—currently at the helm of Brentford—being closely linked with a move to north London. Should Frank take the Spurs job, it is expected he would want to bring some of his trusted Bees stars along with him, and Damsgaard is believed to be high on that list.
A Player Hitting His Stride
While Damsgaard’s early years in the Premier League were marked by inconsistency and injury setbacks, the 24-year-old has steadily rediscovered the form that made him a breakout star for Denmark at the Euros. Football scout Jacek Kulig, who has been tracking the Dane for years, described him as “brilliant” in recent evaluations, underlining just how much his stock has risen once again.
Last season, only Mohamed Salah, Anthony Elanga, and Newcastle’s own Jacob Murphy managed more assists than Damsgaard, highlighting his ability to influence games in the final third. His potential addition to Newcastle’s midfield could offer Eddie Howe a powerful creative axis—especially if Elanga also arrives—turning the Magpies into one of the most exciting attacking outfits in the league.
A Bargain in the Making?
From a financial standpoint, Damsgaard could be a highly economical signing despite the sizable transfer fee. He is currently on a reported weekly wage of £35,000—a relatively modest figure compared to Newcastle’s wage structure. This means not only would he be a sensible addition from a footballing perspective, but he would also fit within the club’s financial model.
Damsgaard possesses exactly the type of profile Newcastle are now targeting: Premier League experience, tactical intelligence, creative flair, and room to grow. He joins a shortlist of targets—alongside Elanga and Trafford—who represent a new era of strategic, efficient recruitment at St James’ Park.
As Newcastle continue their mission to close the gap to the Premier League’s elite and make their mark in European football once again, these potential signings signal clear ambition. The Magpies aren’t just building a squad for the future—they’re assembling one that can win right now.