‘Absolutely wants this deal’: Craig Hope gives update on Newcastle United’s striker search that is positive for Toon fans

Newcastle United Edge Closer to Potential Breakthrough in the Transfer Market Following a Series of Setbacks

 

Newcastle United could finally be on the verge of a major breakthrough in what has so far been a frustrating and difficult summer transfer window.

 

Manager Eddie Howe entered the summer with a comprehensive list of areas in his squad needing reinforcement. However, despite numerous efforts and several targets being pursued, only one new signing has been confirmed to date.

 

The Magpies’ solitary incoming transfer so far has been the high-profile £55 million capture of Anthony Elanga. While the Swedish winger represents a significant addition, the club has missed out on a number of key targets including Hugo Ekitike, João Pedro, Liam Delap, Bryan Mbeumo, James Trafford, Matheus Cunha, and Jonathan David. Each of these transfer pursuits ultimately fell through—primarily due to financial constraints or more attractive offers from rival clubs.

 

Now, however, it appears Newcastle may finally be set to turn a corner.

 

Yoane Wissa Transfer Gathers Momentum Amid Player’s Strong Desire

 

According to a fresh update from Craig Hope of the Daily Mail, Newcastle have received a major boost in their pursuit of Brentford forward Yoane Wissa, who has reportedly made it clear that St James’ Park is his preferred destination.

 

Hope revealed that Wissa has already communicated his desire to leave Brentford and join Newcastle, even going as far as refusing to play for the Bees in an effort to push the move through. The 27-year-old DR Congo international had previously been told he would be allowed to leave this summer if the right offer came along—a promise Brentford are now hesitant to honour.

 

Hope said:

 

> “Yoane Wissa, I had an update on that this morning. I was trying to take a nap and I took a call on that. My latest information is that Wissa has communicated that he absolutely wants this deal to happen—and that’s important.”

 

 

 

This level of determination has clearly caught Eddie Howe’s attention. The Newcastle boss is known to place a high value on players who show a genuine desire to join the club.

 

> “Eddie Howe is on the record as saying that transfers only happen when a player really wants them to—and Eddie likes that. He liked that in Anthony Elanga.”

 

 

 

According to Hope, Wissa has informed Brentford that he has no intention of playing for them again and has urged them to find a solution. Crucially, he has his sights set solely on Newcastle, despite apparent interest from Aston Villa, Nottingham Forest, and Tottenham Hotspur.

 

> “He’s told them to find a solution. This is the move he wants—not Villa, not Forest, not Tottenham—Newcastle.”

 

 

 

A Player Who Genuinely Wants to Wear Black and White

 

Wissa’s enthusiasm for the move offers a rare and refreshing change for Newcastle fans. The Magpies have spent much of the window chasing players only to be used as leverage in negotiations with other clubs. Having a target actively pushing for the move could make all the difference.

 

Should the deal be completed, Wissa is expected to come in as a long-term replacement for Callum Wilson, whose future at the club remains uncertain due to injury concerns and growing interest from elsewhere.

 

Yet even if Wissa signs, Newcastle’s work in the transfer market is far from done. With Champions League football to prepare for and lingering doubts over Alexander Isak’s commitment, additional reinforcements will be crucial.

 

There’s growing concern that Isak’s head may have been turned by continued links to Liverpool, casting uncertainty over whether he can give his full focus and energy to Newcastle in the months ahead. Some supporters have drawn parallels with Anthony Gordon, who took time to rediscover his form after similar speculation last season.

 

Regardless of what happens with Isak, most observers agree that another top-quality striker is needed to navigate the dual demands of the Premier League and Europe.

 

Brentford’s Resistance May Soon Falter

 

Brentford remain reluctant to lose Wissa, but their hand may be forced if the forward continues to push for an exit. His stance—combined with Newcastle’s increasing pressure—could ultimately tip the balance.

 

If a deal is agreed, it will not only bolster Eddie Howe’s attacking options, but also provide a major psychological lift for the club after enduring repeated disappointments this summer.

 

More than anything, it will signal that Newcastle United still has the pull to attract determined, ambitious players who truly want to be part of the project on Tyneside—not just those looking for a bidding war or a payday elsewhere.

 

In the midst of a summer that has offered more frustration than progress, Yoane Wissa’s stance might just be the catalyst Newcastle have been waiting for.