Brentford issue surprise statement on No.9 that Newcastle United will love

 

Newcastle United Land £55m Yoane Wissa Signing as Brentford Chief Hails His ‘Infectious’ Personality

Newcastle United pulled off one of the most eye-catching deals of deadline day by securing the signature of Yoane Wissa from Brentford in a £55million move. The Congolese forward arrives at St James’ Park as the replacement for Alexander Isak, who forced through a sensational transfer to Liverpool earlier in the summer.

 

Wissa, 27, has become a household name in the Premier League with his tireless work rate, versatility, and clinical finishing. His transfer to the Magpies not only fills the void left by Isak but also signals Newcastle’s ambition to remain competitive at the highest level, both domestically and in Europe.

 

The deal has been the subject of intense speculation throughout the window, with both Isak’s departure and Wissa’s move dominating the headlines. In the end, both players got their wishes: Isak made his dream switch to Anfield, while Wissa takes on the iconic No.9 shirt at Newcastle, a jersey steeped in history and expectation.

 

Phil Giles on Wissa’s Exit

Brentford sporting director Phil Giles – a lifelong Newcastle supporter born in Gosforth – admitted it was a bittersweet moment watching one of his key players leave for his boyhood club. Speaking to Brentford’s official channels, Giles described Wissa as not just an important player, but also a special personality in the dressing room.

 

“It’s been an interesting last few days and, in fact, an interesting few weeks,” Giles explained. “The big story is selling Yoane Wissa. He was a fantastic player for us, someone who started off playing wide but evolved into a top-class No.9. Last season he was brilliant.

 

“Yoane was also a really good, infectious character – always positive around the players and fans. I personally liked him a lot as well, so there’s nothing but positive things to say about him, both on and off the pitch.”

 

The sporting director also shed light on the nature of transfers, admitting that Wissa’s exit – much like Isak’s from Newcastle – was far from straightforward.

 

“Transfers are always complicated. There’s always emotion, friction, and dialogue. Normally, those things stay in-house, but this one spilled out publicly. It’s not the only one this summer that has done so, which from my perspective is not ideal. But that’s football, and we had to manage it.”

 

A Summer of Change at Brentford

Brentford’s summer window has been one of upheaval. Alongside Wissa’s departure, fellow talisman Bryan Mbeumo sealed a big-money move to Manchester United. Losing two of their most influential attacking stars was not an easy decision, but Giles insisted that every choice made was for the greater good of the club.

 

“When you’re making big transfer decisions, you have to strip the emotion out of it,” Giles said. “These are choices that impact not just the pitch but the whole structure and stability of the club. For me, it’s always about doing what’s right for Brentford in that moment, even if it doesn’t look easy from the outside.

 

“This summer has maybe been more public than usual, but fundamentally, it’s no different to other windows. Every decision is made with the club’s best interests at heart.”

 

Despite the exits, Brentford remain confident in their ability to rebuild and maintain their competitiveness in the Premier League, with several reinforcements already brought in to strengthen the squad.

 

Yoane Wissa Speaks on Newcastle Dream

For Wissa, the move to St James’ Park represents the biggest step of his career so far. The DR Congo international could barely contain his excitement as he shared his first words as a Newcastle player.

 

“I’m really happy to be here and to sign for one of the biggest clubs in the Premier League,” Wissa said. “I’m very, very excited to put on the black and white shirt. I’ve got dreams, I’ve got faith, and now I will do my best to make it all happen. I can’t wait to get started.”

 

His arrival has already generated a wave of anticipation among Newcastle supporters, who have seen the No.9 jersey worn by icons such as Alan Shearer, Andy Cole, and Les Ferdinand. Wissa will now carry the responsibility of continuing that legacy while spearheading Eddie Howe’s attack in the post-Isak era.

 

The Bigger Picture for Newcastle

Newcastle’s decision to move swiftly for Wissa highlights the club’s ambition and long-term planning. Losing a talent like Isak was always going to be a blow, but the acquisition of Wissa – proven in the Premier League and entering his peak years – offers stability and firepower at a crucial time.

 

With the Magpies also competing in European competitions, squad depth will be key, and Wissa’s adaptability across the forward line could prove invaluable. Howe has a reputation for improving players, and many within the club believe the Congolese star still has another level to reach under his guidance.

 

For now, Newcastle fans can dream of seeing Wissa light up St James’ Park as the new face of their attack – a player described as “infectious, positive, and brilliant” by his former club, and one

determined to make history on Tyneside.