Exclusive: £50m star now ‘very high’ on Newcastle’s radar after missing out on Joao Pedro deal
Newcastle United Intensify Pursuit of Liverpool Midfielder Harvey Elliott as Transfer Window Frustrations Mount
Newcastle United are ramping up their interest in Liverpool midfielder Harvey Elliott amid growing uncertainty over his future at Anfield, sources close to TBR Football have revealed.
Eddie Howe and his recruitment team are becoming increasingly vigilant regarding Elliott’s situation, especially following a frustrating start to the summer transfer window. The Magpies have so far come up short in their efforts to strengthen the right side of their attack — a key area of concern as they prepare for the 2025/26 campaign.
Earlier in the window, Newcastle targeted Brentford’s dynamic winger Bryan Mbeumo. However, their hopes of securing the Frenchman’s signature quickly faded due to Brentford’s hefty valuation, which reportedly deterred the Tyneside club from pushing forward.
A similar scenario unfolded in their pursuit of Brighton & Hove Albion’s Joao Pedro. Despite admiring the Brazilian forward’s talent and potential, Newcastle ultimately walked away from the deal, unwilling to meet Brighton’s £60 million price tag. The 22-year-old is now on the verge of joining Chelsea, leaving Newcastle to reassess their options once more.
Harvey Elliott Now a Major Target for the Magpies
Amid these setbacks, Harvey Elliott has emerged as a significant target. According to TBR Football’s chief correspondent Graeme Bailey, Newcastle were already monitoring the young midfielder’s situation even before it became public knowledge that Liverpool might be open to letting him leave.
The 21-year-old has reportedly expressed a desire for more consistent first-team football, having found minutes increasingly hard to come by under new Liverpool manager Arne Slot. Despite his talent and past flashes of brilliance, Elliott has struggled to cement a regular starting role at Anfield — a situation that may now prompt him to seek opportunities elsewhere.
Interest in Elliott surged further after his outstanding displays for England’s U21 side during this summer’s European Championships. Elliott played a key role in helping the Young Lions retain their crown, capping off his tournament with a superb performance in the final against Germany.
Premier League and European Clubs Circle for Elliott’s Signature
Newcastle are not the only club keeping tabs on the former Fulham prodigy. Multiple Premier League sides have expressed interest, and European outfit RB Leipzig are also believed to be weighing up a move. Their interest reportedly stems from influence left behind by Jurgen Klopp, who remains an iconic figure at the German club following his time at Borussia Dortmund and Liverpool.
Despite the competition, Newcastle appear ready to make their move. With their previous targets proving either too expensive or unavailable, Elliott is now seen as a more attainable option — though Liverpool are expected to demand upwards of £50 million for the midfielder. Elliott’s current market valuation is believed to be over £40 million, but with clubs circling, a bidding war could emerge.
Lee Carsley Backs Elliott’s Quality
England U21 manager Lee Carsley has been full of praise for Elliott, calling him “outstanding” during the recent tournament in Slovakia. Speaking before the final, Carsley said: “Harvey has been outstanding. He’s one of many who has stood up. They’re developing as a team and it’s just a shame we only have one game left because I think this team is outstanding.”
Such high praise has only reinforced the belief within Newcastle’s camp that Elliott could be a transformative signing — someone who can bring energy, creativity, and versatility to Howe’s midfield and forward line.
A Golden Opportunity Amid Transfer Setbacks
Although Newcastle have endured a disappointing start to their summer business, a successful move for Elliott could change the narrative entirely. The Magpies are eager to avoid a repeat of last season’s squad depth issues, and adding a player of Elliott’s quality and potential could provide a significant boost as they aim to compete on multiple fronts.
While negotiations may still be in their early stages, it’s clear that Newcastle are serious about Elliott — and ready to strike should Liverpool open the door to a sale.