Newcastle United told to consider signing ‘Swedish Lionel Messi’ after confirming stance on his future

Newcastle United are gearing up for an important summer transfer window, with plans in place to add depth and quality to their squad. Following a challenging season and the excitement of returning to the UEFA Champions League, the Magpies are determined to make a statement in the transfer market. While big-money signings are being discussed, there could be a golden opportunity on the horizon — one that involves securing a player often compared to Lionel Messi.

The Magpies haven’t made significant additions to their senior squad across the last three transfer windows, something that players and coaching staff alike want to change. Brazilian star Bruno Guimaraes was vocal in calling for new signings immediately after Newcastle secured Champions League qualification, highlighting the importance of bolstering the squad. Manager Eddie Howe also wasted no time, meeting with representatives from the Public Investment Fund (PIF) on the same day as the final Premier League match to assess and plan their transfer strategy.

Although Newcastle are not traditionally known for exploiting the free-agent market, recent moves suggest a shift in approach. The signings of Lloyd Kelly from Bournemouth and promising young winger Antonio Cordero from Malaga point toward a willingness to explore cost-effective solutions. Bringing in players without hefty transfer fees allows the club to focus resources on wages, potentially opening doors to high-quality talents who may otherwise be financially out of reach.

One such player that Newcastle should have their eyes on is Roony Bardghji, a teenage sensation from FC Copenhagen, whose contract expires at the end of 2025. Though he won’t be a free agent this summer, Newcastle could position themselves to either strike a deal early or secure his signature in six months’ time, should he remain available. Given his decision not to renew with Copenhagen, the window of opportunity is wide open.

At just 19 years old, Bardghji has already made waves across Europe. Bursting onto the scene at just 16, the Swedish winger quickly earned a starting role in Copenhagen’s first team and even featured in European competition during his debut season. Often referred to as the ‘Swedish Lionel Messi’ by outlets such as Sportskeeda, Bardghji combines flair, creativity, and a keen eye for goal — all of which make him an enticing prospect for clubs across Europe.

Earlier this year, Newcastle were linked with the young star following his return from an ACL injury. Since then, his stock has only risen, especially after publicly confirming his desire to move on from the Danish club. Bardghji has already tested himself at the highest level in the Champions League, a factor that makes him an ideal target for a Newcastle side preparing to navigate Europe’s elite competition.

Crucially, Bardghji’s preferred position is on the right wing — an area where Newcastle are short of top-tier options. Signing him would directly address a positional need and inject youthful energy into the squad. While his current contract means he can’t be signed for free just yet, a fee could be negotiated to bring him in ahead of time, should Newcastle feel the urgency to beat the competition.

That competition is already heating up. Reports suggest that Portuguese giants FC Porto have submitted a formal offer to Bardghji for a potential free transfer, indicating that other clubs are already making moves. Newcastle will need to act decisively if they want to win the race for one of Europe’s most exciting young talents.

Fortunately, the Magpies have an ace up their sleeve — their Scandinavian connection. Newcastle already boast two Swedish internationals in Alexander Isak and Emil Krafth, both of whom have solid reputations in the national team setup and are well-liked within the club. Having fellow countrymen already settled on Tyneside could be a major factor in convincing Bardghji to choose Newcastle over other suitors.

The presence of Isak and Krafth could help Bardghji adjust quickly to life in the Premier League, both on and off the pitch. This support system could give Newcastle a significant advantage, especially as the player considers his options and prepares for the next chapter of his career.

In summary, while Newcastle United are expected to pursue multiple signings this summer to strengthen their Champions League squad, the potential capture of Roony Bardghji — whether now or on a free transfer in six months — could be one of the smartest and most impactful moves they make. If they play their cards right, the Magpies might just land a player who has all the makings of a future superstar.