Craig Hope: Newcastle in talks over next 24 hrs to sign £60m CF, Ramsey will love him – opinion
Newcastle United’s Transfer Window: Frustration, Fresh Faces, and the Pursuit of Firepower
It is probably fair to suggest that Newcastle United supporters envisioned a very different kind of summer transfer window than the one currently unfolding. Optimism had turned into agitation over recent months, with the dominant theme across the Tyneside fanbase being one of muted frustration.
After all, Eddie Howe’s side are no longer plucky outsiders—they are a trophy-winning outfit with genuine ambitions of permanently inserting themselves among England’s elite. Over the past three seasons, Newcastle have qualified for the Champions League twice and, in March, capped off their resurgence by lifting the Carabao Cup with victory over Liverpool at Wembley. These achievements confirmed that the Magpies are more than capable of breaking the long-standing dominance of the Premier League’s so-called “big six.”
And yet, despite these highs, there is an unmistakable sense that more investment is required to build on that momentum. The supporters know it, Howe knows it, and the results of this transfer window will go a long way in shaping Newcastle’s trajectory for the coming campaign.
Elanga Sparks, But Isak Saga Lingers
One bright note has been the addition of Anthony Elanga. The Swedish winger wasted no time in making an impression on his debut against Aston Villa, completing 23 sprints and reaching a top speed of 32.7 km/h, according to Sofascore. Only Anthony Gordon ran faster on the day, underlining how Elanga’s electric pace will add a new weapon to Newcastle’s right flank.
However, while the new arrival excites, the absence of Alexander Isak looms large. The Swede’s future continues to be a topic of heated debate, with Liverpool heavily linked and the player himself seemingly unsettled. Newcastle cannot afford to let the saga drag on indefinitely. Still, Howe and the recruitment team are wise enough not to place all their focus solely on the number nine position, with several other areas requiring reinforcement.
Jacob Ramsey: A Statement Midfield Signing
One area that has been addressed is central midfield. Newcastle moved swiftly to secure Jacob Ramsey from Aston Villa in a deal worth an initial £39 million. The signing is not just opportunistic but strategically sound.
Ramsey arrives at St. James’ Park with a reputation as a hardworking and technically gifted midfielder. At 24, he is entering his prime years, and his decision to join Howe’s project was influenced by the manager’s strong reputation for improving players. Ramsey himself referenced Howe’s track record as a decisive factor in his move north.
The timing of the deal is crucial. With Sean Longstaff departing to Leeds United earlier in the summer, Newcastle needed depth and dynamism in the middle of the park. Ramsey offers both, easing the workload on Howe’s trusted midfield trio while adding creativity and energy that could prove vital across a long season.
When fit, Ramsey has shown he can make a difference. Across his Villa career, he tallied 17 goals and 19 assists, with 13 direct goal contributions in the 2022/23 Premier League campaign alone. Injuries have slowed him at times, but if Newcastle can manage his minutes effectively, they could have secured a bargain.
The Wissa Chase: Newcastle Push for Firepower
Of course, the marquee move Newcastle fans are waiting on is the addition of a new centre-forward. According to Craig Hope of the Daily Mail, the club has reopened negotiations with Brentford over Yoane Wissa.
Brentford, however, are playing hardball. Reports suggest they have raised their asking price from £50 million to £60 million for the Congolese striker. Newcastle, for their part, are reluctant to meet such a figure, but discussions remain ongoing. The coming days will likely be pivotal in determining whether a compromise can be reached.
What Wissa Brings
Should Newcastle succeed in landing Wissa, the benefits are obvious. The 28-year-old enjoyed a stellar 2023/24 season, netting 20 times in all competitions, including 19 goals in the Premier League. His finishing has been described as “sensational” by Sky Sports pundit Mark McAdam, and his diverse scoring record demonstrates his threat in multiple situations: ten goals with his right foot, five with his left, and four with his head.
That aerial presence would complement the wing play of Gordon and Elanga, while his sharp movement and hold-up play could form the foundation of a devastating partnership with Jacob Ramsey. Data from FBref even shows Wissa’s attacking output to be tactically comparable to Isak’s, further highlighting his suitability as a potential replacement.
Ramsey + Wissa: A Potentially Lethal Combo
Ramsey, versatile enough to play centrally or out wide, would thrive alongside a finisher of Wissa’s calibre. His five Premier League assists last season came despite starting just 19 games, while his passing accuracy of 87% and ability to create big chances underline his composure in possession. On top of that, he won 59% of his ground duels, an impressive figure that reflects the energy Howe prizes in his players.
If Wissa were to join, Newcastle’s attack would take on a fresh, dynamic look. The Congolese forward has already demonstrated how dangerous he can be when paired with a creative foil, forming an “unplayable” strike partnership with Bryan Mbeumo at Brentford. Ramsey could provide that same connection on Tyneside, linking midfield to attack in a system built on pace, pressing, and quick transitions.
A Defining Few Weeks Ahead
Newcastle’s summer window may have started with frustration, but the pieces are gradually falling into place. With Malick Thiaw bolstering the defence, Aaron Ramsdale providing competition in goal, Elanga injecting raw pace, and Ramsey adding midfield dynamism, the squad already looks stronger.
If they can finalise a deal for Wissa, Newcastle will not only cover themselves in the event of Isak’s departure but also gain a proven Premier League goalscorer capable of spearheading their European push.
Eddie Howe has carefully constructed a side that blends energy, intelligence, and technical quality. Should Wissa arrive to complete the puzzle, there is every chance Newcastle United will not only cement their place in the Champions League but also continue their ascent as genuine challengers to the Premier League’s established order.