£50m Wissa alternative is emerging as a leading target for Newcastle, he’d love Elanga – opinion
Newcastle’s Striker Dilemma Intensifies as Isak Refuses to Play
Newcastle United’s summer continues to be overshadowed by the ongoing saga surrounding Alexander Isak. The Sweden international remains unavailable for selection after refusing to play for the Magpies this season, leaving manager Eddie Howe in a difficult position. Without their £63 million record signing, Newcastle were forced to get inventive in their Premier League opener, with Anthony Gordon deployed as a makeshift striker and new arrival Anthony Elanga operating alongside Harvey Barnes on the flanks.
The reshuffled front line produced mixed results. While Newcastle looked energetic and dangerous on the wings, the absence of a natural centre-forward left their attack unbalanced and at times predictable. Gordon worked tirelessly through the middle but lacked the natural instincts of an out-and-out number nine, highlighting just how urgently Howe needs reinforcements before the transfer window slams shut.
—
Elanga Impresses on Debut
Despite the frustration of a goalless draw, one major positive for Newcastle was the performance of Isak’s Sweden teammate Anthony Elanga. Making his competitive debut for the club following his move from Nottingham Forest, the 22-year-old showcased the qualities that made him such an exciting signing.
According to data from Sofascore, Elanga registered an astonishing 23 sprints during the game and reached a top speed of 35.3 km/h, making him one of the fastest players on the pitch. His direct running and willingness to stretch defences immediately caught the eye, while he also created two chances for his teammates. For supporters eager to see attacking dynamism, Elanga’s debut was a sign of real promise.
However, as lively as he was, Elanga’s best work often came from wide areas. Without a natural striker to finish off the chances, Newcastle’s attacks frequently fizzled out. The problem is clear: they need a proven centre-forward, especially with Isak’s future in serious doubt.
—
Newcastle’s Search for a Striker
Plenty of names have been linked with a move to St James’ Park as Newcastle step up their search. Wolves forward Jørgen Strand Larsen has been monitored, while Brentford’s Yoane Wissa and Chelsea’s Nicolas Jackson are also considered potential solutions. But in recent days, another high-profile target has emerged — Aston Villa and England striker Ollie Watkins.
According to TBR Football, Newcastle have identified Watkins as a “prime target” as the final ten days of the window approach. Interestingly, Villa themselves are exploring the possibility of signing Chelsea’s Nicolas Jackson, which could open the door for Newcastle to make a move for Watkins.
The stumbling block, of course, will be the fee. Reports earlier in the summer suggested Villa would demand around £50 million for their talisman, a figure that Newcastle may have to meet if they are serious about strengthening their forward line.
—
Why Ollie Watkins Fits the Bill
Watkins has established himself as one of the Premier League’s most consistent and dangerous strikers since his arrival from Brentford in 2020. Now 29, he boasts an impressive record of 75 goals and 36 assists in 185 top-flight appearances — a testament to both his reliability and versatility in the final third.
Crucially, Watkins has hit double figures in each of his five full Premier League campaigns, underlining his consistency. His 2023/24 season was particularly impressive, with 16 league goals, making him one of the most productive strikers in England.
Sky Sports analyst Dougie Critchley previously described Watkins as a “dangerous number nine,” and it’s easy to see why. His pace, movement in behind, and relentless work rate make him a constant menace for defenders. Watkins thrives on stretching play and exploiting space, exactly the kind of striker Newcastle’s current system desperately requires.
—
A Perfect Partnership in the Making?
The prospect of Watkins linking up with Elanga is particularly enticing. Elanga, who managed six goals and 11 assists for Nottingham Forest last season, is at his best when driving forward and threading passes into runners behind opposition defences. In his debut, he nearly set up Gordon with a perfectly weighted ball, forcing Villa’s Ezri Konsa into a desperate foul that saw him dismissed.
This style of play dovetails perfectly with Watkins’ strengths. The England striker has often spoken about how “running in behind and causing problems” is his bread and butter. Pairing his intelligent movement with Elanga’s ability to carry the ball and create chances could give Newcastle the cutting edge they currently lack.
For Howe, £50 million may seem like a steep price, but it could be a necessary investment. In Watkins, he would be buying not just goals, but a proven Premier League striker who could instantly elevate the team’s attacking options. Combined with Elanga’s youthful energy and Gordon’s relentless drive, Watkins could form the centrepiece of a new-look Newcastle front line capable of firing the Magpies back into the Champions League race.
—
👉 In short: Newcastle need clarity on Isak’s future quickly. But regardless of whether the Swede stays or goes, Ollie Watkins looks like the kind of ready-made striker who could solve their problems and transform their season.