Second striker now ‘pushing’ to join Newcastle after Woltemade

Newcastle United are continuing high-level discussions over the possibility of signing Yoane Wissa from Brentford, with the Congolese forward determined to force through a switch to St James’ Park before the summer transfer window shuts, according to senior reporter Fabrizio Romano.

 

The Magpies have already made significant progress in the market this week, with a club-record £69 million deal agreed for Stuttgart striker Nick Woltemade, who is expected to put pen to paper imminently. Yet, manager Eddie Howe has made it clear that one marquee attacking addition is not enough, and Newcastle want to strengthen further in the final days of the window by securing a second striker.

 

Wissa Pushing Hard for Newcastle Move

 

Romano revealed in his latest newsletter for GIVEMESPORT that Wissa has set his heart on a move to the North East, with the 27-year-old actively pushing Brentford to sanction the transfer. Discussions between Newcastle officials and their counterparts in west London have been ongoing for several days, but the Bees have been reluctant to lose one of their key forwards without being heavily compensated.

 

“They want one more [striker after Woltemade]. Talks are ongoing for Wissa. He is pushing, but nothing is done yet,” Romano explained.

 

Wissa’s determination to secure the move stems from his desire to play at the very highest level. Newcastle, having qualified for the Champions League, present a rare opportunity for him to showcase his abilities on Europe’s grandest stage. The forward sees this transfer as the natural next step in his career, after steadily rising in reputation since arriving in the Premier League from Lorient in 2021.

 

Brentford Holding Firm on Valuation

 

Despite Newcastle’s persistent interest, Brentford have so far rejected bids of up to £40 million, making it clear that they will only part ways with Wissa if their demands are met. Earlier this month, they increased their valuation to £60 million, a figure that has complicated matters for the Magpies and other potential suitors.

 

Brentford boss Keith Andrews, who is eager to retain as much attacking firepower as possible, sees Wissa as central to his plans. With Ivan Toney also the subject of ongoing speculation, the Bees are reluctant to let another frontline option leave without securing significant reinforcements of their own.

 

Player’s Frustration Reaches Boiling Point

 

For Wissa, however, the wait is becoming increasingly frustrating. Sources close to the player suggest that he is so determined to join Newcastle that he has even threatened to down tools, refusing to play or train for Brentford again unless an agreement is reached. While he remains under contract, his stance has created tension behind the scenes at the Gtech Community Stadium.

 

The Democratic Republic of Congo international, who has been described as “extraordinary” by pundits for his dynamism, finishing ability, and work rate, believes this is the perfect time to embrace a new challenge. With only a handful of days left before Monday’s 7pm transfer deadline, Newcastle are hoping that Brentford will soften their stance and accept a compromise deal.

 

Newcastle’s Ambition Clear

 

For Eddie Howe and Newcastle’s recruitment team, landing both Woltemade and Wissa in the same window would represent a massive statement of intent. The club is determined to build a forward line capable of competing domestically and in Europe, and Wissa’s versatility – being able to play as a striker or wide forward – makes him an ideal fit for Howe’s tactical system.

 

Whether Brentford ultimately bow to player pressure remains to be seen, but what is certain is that Newcastle’s pursuit of Wissa has become one of the most gripping transfer sagas of deadline week.