Newcastle United set to hijack Premier League Star from Tottenham, after Thomas Frank has shown real interest in him
Newcastle United Set to Strengthen Midfield Amid Ambitious Summer Transfer Plans by PIF
Continuing their recent strategy of targeting Premier League competitors, the Public Investment Fund (PIF) is reportedly considering a high-profile signing this summer to bolster Newcastle United’s attacking options. The club is said to be evaluating a move for an impressive attacking midfielder, aiming to further strengthen their squad ahead of the next campaign.
Newcastle’s Transfer Pursuits: Elanga and Trafford Still on the Radar
Newcastle have already made an early move in the transfer market by securing Antonio Cordero on a free transfer, signaling their intent to act swiftly. However, their ambitions don’t stop there. The Magpies remain actively involved in negotiations for two significant targets: Anthony Elanga, currently at Nottingham Forest, and James Trafford from Burnley. Both players have been long-term transfer targets for Newcastle, with the club hopeful that bringing in these talents would provide immediate improvements to Eddie Howe’s squad.
The pursuit of a dynamic right-wing player has been a prominent objective for Newcastle over the past year. After missing out on Bryan Mbeumo—who opted to join Manchester United—signing Elanga would represent a perfect alternative. The Swedish winger would challenge Jacob Murphy for a starting role and crucially offer Newcastle greater squad depth, a factor that was sorely missing during their recent Champions League campaign. The addition of Elanga would not only inject pace and creativity but also reinforce the team’s overall attacking threat.
Similarly, the potential arrival of James Trafford would bolster Newcastle’s defensive options, adding a promising young goalkeeper to the squad. Together, these signings would strengthen key areas of the team, helping Newcastle maintain competitiveness both in domestic and European competitions.
Turning Attention to Brentford: PIF Eyes Mikkel Damsgaard
Despite the ongoing chase for Elanga and Trafford, Newcastle’s recruitment drive is far from over. According to reports from Caught Offside, PIF has now set its sights on Brentford, a club from which they narrowly missed out on Bryan Mbeumo. This time, their focus has shifted to one of Brentford’s standout midfielders, Mikkel Damsgaard.
The Danish international has impressed in the Premier League, developing steadily since his breakout performance at Euro 2020. Though Brentford are understandably reluctant to let go of one of their key players, the club reportedly values Damsgaard at around €50 million (£42 million), a price tag Newcastle may be willing to meet in order to secure his services.
Competition for Damsgaard: Tottenham’s Interest and Managerial Moves
Newcastle aren’t the only club interested in Damsgaard. Tottenham Hotspur are reportedly monitoring the situation closely, especially amid their plans involving Brentford’s head coach, Thomas Frank. With Frank linked to a move to North London, Spurs may also aim to bring some of Brentford’s top players, including Damsgaard, with him. This potential transfer saga adds an extra layer of competition for Newcastle, making the summer transfer window an exciting but challenging time for all parties involved.
Damsgaard’s Rising Profile and Fit for Newcastle
Damsgaard’s development into a “brilliant” midfielder, as described by scout Jacek Kulig, has made him one of the Premier League’s more promising creative talents. Last season, only Mohamed Salah, Anthony Elanga, and Jacob Murphy assisted more goals than the Dane, showcasing his ability to unlock defences and set up chances. Should Newcastle secure Damsgaard’s signature, he could join forces with Murphy and potentially Elanga, creating a formidable creative partnership at St James’ Park.
Financially, Damsgaard’s current wages—reportedly around £35,000 per week at Brentford—would be manageable for Newcastle’s budget. Moreover, his experience and familiarity with the Premier League make him a pragmatic and strategic acquisition. Like Elanga and Trafford, Damsgaard ticks all the boxes for what Newcastle’s management and the PIF consortium are looking for in their summer signings.