Newcastle set to bid for £38m “future icon”, he could become even better than Mbeumo

Newcastle United’s Quiet Transfer Window Sparks Concern, but Plans Are in Motion for Reinforcements

 

Newcastle United have had a subdued presence in the transfer market so far this summer, with little movement in terms of new arrivals. However, supporters of the club need not be alarmed. Behind the scenes, Eddie Howe and his recruitment team are actively exploring several potential signings to strengthen the squad ahead of a demanding new season.

 

After securing Champions League qualification on the final day of the Premier League campaign and reaching the final of the Carabao Cup, expectations among fans are understandably high. The Magpies exceeded expectations throughout the season, and there is a strong desire among the fanbase to see that success rewarded with reinforcements capable of competing at the highest level.

 

Yet, the club faces some complications off the pitch. Sporting director Paul Mitchell is set to step down at the end of the month, casting a shadow over their transfer strategy. This change in leadership has only fueled growing frustration, especially with key transfer targets slipping away. One notable example is Brentford star Bryan Mbeumo, who appears to be edging toward a move elsewhere, much to the disappointment of some supporters.

 

Mbeumo enjoyed a standout Premier League campaign, netting 20 goals in 38 appearances and earning rave reviews from his manager, Thomas Frank, who described the Cameroonian international as “unplayable” at times. His dynamic attacking performances caught the eye of several top clubs, making it increasingly difficult for Newcastle to secure his signature.

 

Nevertheless, the Magpies are not standing still. With Mbeumo seemingly off the table, Newcastle are exploring alternative attacking options and may have identified an exciting young talent not yet at the center of the mainstream transfer discourse.

 

Antonio Nusa Emerges as a Promising Alternative

 

According to a report from Caught Offside, Newcastle have joined the race to sign Antonio Nusa, a versatile and highly-rated forward currently plying his trade at RB Leipzig. The 20-year-old Norwegian attacker is also attracting interest from other Premier League heavyweights, including Arsenal and Chelsea, which suggests a bidding war could soon be on the horizon.

 

Nusa, who is valued at around €45 million (£38 million), only made the move to Germany a year ago but has already made significant strides in his development. His versatility across the frontline, coupled with his raw pace and dribbling ability, makes him a tantalizing prospect for any top-flight side looking to invest in long-term potential.

 

Although no formal offers have been submitted yet, clubs are expected to make moves swiftly. Newcastle, in particular, would be wise to act promptly if they hope to avoid missing out on yet another target. With Nusa’s value likely to increase in the coming months, securing his services now could prove to be a shrewd long-term investment.

 

What Could Nusa Bring to St. James’ Park?

 

Regarded by football talent scout Jacek Kulig as a “future icon,” Nusa has impressed during his first season in the Bundesliga, tallying five goals and seven assists across 36 appearances. While his goal tally doesn’t yet rival Mbeumo’s, his overall contribution to attacking play suggests a more complete forward in the making.

 

Notably, Nusa shone on the biggest stage—the UEFA Champions League. Data from FBref places him among the elite in several key attacking metrics: he ranks in the top 4% of attacking midfielders and wingers in Europe for shot-creating actions, the top 7% for progressive carries, and the top 5% for successful take-ons per 90 minutes. These statistics paint the picture of a player with tremendous attacking output and the ability to break down defences with individual skill and intelligent movement.

 

Although still developing, Nusa is five years younger than Mbeumo and already shows signs of being able to compete at the top level. His ability to carry the ball forward with purpose, coupled with impressive close control and balance, could be exactly what Eddie Howe is looking for to diversify his attacking options.

 

Moreover, Nusa demonstrated a clinical edge in front of goal during the Bundesliga season, missing just one big chance despite his relatively low goal output. This suggests that with the right coaching and tactical system, he could develop into a reliable finisher. Howe may see him as a long-term project who can be gradually integrated into the first team, learning alongside more established forwards while contributing in key moments.

 

A Smart Addition for Newcastle’s European Ambitions

 

With Newcastle preparing for their return to European competition, squad depth will be more important than ever. While marquee signings often steal the headlines, securing a rising star like Nusa could prove just as vital. He offers immediate value as a rotational option while possessing the upside to eventually become a first-team regular.

 

Given the likely high cost of prying Mbeumo away from Brentford, the Magpies may find it more strategic to invest in a player like Nusa—someone who fits their long-term vision and can grow within Howe’s system. His age, versatility, and technical ability make him an ideal candidate to thrive in the Premier League and perhaps surpass Mbeumo’s level in the seasons ahead.

 

Newcastle fans may still be waiting for the first major signing of the summer, but with talents like Antonio Nusa on the radar, the club’s recruitment strategy appears focused on sustainable growth and high-potential talent—exactly the foundation needed to remain competitive both domestically and in Europe.