Newcastle United Transfer Update: Latest on Alexander Isak, Yoanne Wissa and More | OneFootball

Newcastle’s Transfer Window Woes Continue Amid Ekitike Snub and Isak Speculation

Just days after the buzz surrounding Anthony Elanga’s signing, Newcastle United supporters find themselves staring at yet another transfer setback. A bid worth approximately €75 million was lodged for French striker Hugo Ekitike, signalling serious intent from the Magpies. However, optimism quickly turned to frustration when the player’s representatives opted for an alternative destination, despite what many at St James’ Park believed were promising talks.

The Athletic reports that although Eintracht Frankfurt downplayed any agreement, some within Newcastle circles felt a deal was close: “Newcastle launched a bid worth around €75million for Ekitike… as Newcastle believe the Frenchman’s camp had indicated he was willing to do.”

This pattern of missing out on priority targets is becoming all too familiar. Ekitike joins a growing list of names — Bryan Mbeumo, Dean Huijsen, Liam Delap and Joao Pedro — who have ultimately turned away from Tyneside interest.

Alexander Isak’s Future Under Scrutiny

Newcastle’s resolve to keep Alexander Isak is being tested. Liverpool have reportedly enquired about the Swedish striker’s availability for a staggering £120 million. The club has reiterated that their star forward is not for sale, but the situation has raised alarm bells.

When Isak was left out of the squad for the 4-0 pre-season defeat to Celtic, speculation intensified. Eddie Howe’s explanation — that Isak’s minutes were being “managed” — did little to quieten the storm. Howe added that “at least part of the reason behind his omission was the constant speculation.”

Photo IMAGO

Despite the noise, Newcastle remain firm. Talks over a contract extension, though previously postponed, are expected to resume later this summer.

Transfer Priorities Shift Amid Mounting Frustration

Following Sean Longstaff’s £12m move to Leeds United, recruitment staff have turned their focus to replacing key squad members. While they remain hopeful about signing 18-year-old Park Seung-soo from Suwon Bluewings, the gap left by Longstaff and the lack of progress on top targets leaves obvious concerns.

Yoane Wissa has emerged as a potential target. The Brentford forward bagged 19 Premier League goals last season and is known for his versatility. However, his age and upcoming Africa Cup of Nations participation make him a less-than-ideal fit. As The Athletic notes, “Wissa turns 29 in September, so he is significantly older than the preferred age profile.”

Other attacking options like Dominic Calvert-Lewin are being explored, though Ollie Watkins has been ruled out.

Photo IMAGO

Defensive and Goalkeeping Concerns Persist

Newcastle’s pursuit of James Trafford drags on without resolution. Burnley’s high valuation and the threat of Manchester City entering the race complicate matters. Meanwhile, scouts have observed Lille’s Lucas Chevalier, but there’s no guarantee of a fallback signing.

In defence, long-term interest in Marc Guehi persists. The Crystal Palace centre-back is entering the final year of his contract, and names like Giorgio Scalvini and Leonardo Balerdi are also in the mix. However, no move is imminent, and options like Axel Disasi and Nicolo Savona are no longer being considered.

Photo: IMAGO

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

This window feels like an endless loop of setbacks and spin. We get hyped over big names like Ekitike, only to be ghosted at the last minute. How can we expect to break into the top four when every serious target chooses somewhere else? It’s baffling that, with Champions League football only just behind us, we’re still seen as a less attractive proposition than mid-table clubs.

What really stings is watching us bid €75m, only to lose the player to another suitor, again. And while Isak is “not for sale,” the fact that talks have stalled and he was omitted from a matchday squad during peak speculation is deeply worrying.

The club keeps saying we need the “right player,” but so far, that seems to mean no player at all. Calvert-Lewin’s been linked, but is he really the answer? We let Longstaff go and are nowhere near a replacement. The recruitment strategy feels too reactive — waiting, hesitating — and in today’s market, that’s not good enough.

We want ambition, but above all, we need clarity. Right now, it feels like we’re treading water while everyone else is swimming past us.