Brentford’s £40m Forward “Only Wants” Newcastle Transfer Despite Competing Bids | OneFootball

Wissa Pushes for Newcastle Move as Brentford Standoff Continues

Yoane Wissa’s desire to swap west London for the North East is no longer in doubt. The Brentford forward, who struck 19 goals in the Premier League last season, has made it emphatically clear that his heart is set on Newcastle United. Despite interest from Tottenham Hotspur, Nottingham Forest and Aston Villa, it is Eddie Howe’s Magpies that Wissa is determined to join.

As per Craig Hope, who reported the update on Tuesday morning, underlining the player’s stance and the gravity of the situation at Brentford. “Wissa wants it to happen. He’s not going to play for Brentford. Again, he’s communicated that to them. He’s told them to find a solution. This is the move he wants, not Villa, not Forest, not Tottenham – Newcastle.”

Player Desire Matches Howe’s Ethos

Eddie Howe has always been a manager who values character and clarity. Transfers at Newcastle are not just about numbers, they are about mentality. As Hope noted, “Eddie Howe is on the record, as saying that transfers only happen when a player really wants them to and Eddie likes that. He liked that in Anthony Elanga.”

It is this same determined mindset that Howe recognises in Wissa. The Congolese forward’s refusal to consider offers from elsewhere speaks volumes. He is not looking for an upgrade in wages, he wants to compete in the Champions League. Newcastle, back at Europe’s top table, now have the allure to match their ambition.

Wissa has told Brentford he will not play for the club again. His frustration is rooted in what he believes was a broken promise. GIVEMESPORT’s Ben Jacobs revealed that Wissa may even consider going on strike, feeling the club reneged on a verbal agreement to allow him to leave for £26 million. Newcastle, it is understood, are prepared to go as high as £35 million to secure his signature.

Numbers That Back His Rise

Described as “extraordinary,” Wissa’s 2024/25 campaign was the finest of his career. With 19 goals in 35 appearances, he became the focal point of Brentford’s attack. His sharp movement, intelligent pressing and instinctive finishing make him ideal for Howe’s high-intensity system.

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This is not a luxury signing. With Alexander Isak requesting a move away from St James’ Park, Wissa could quickly shift from exciting option to central figure. His adaptability across the front line adds value, especially with European football stretching squad depth to its limits.

Brentford Begin to Look Elsewhere

Brentford, for their part, are now scouting potential replacements. There is a growing sense that they may have little choice but to cash in. Newcastle’s willingness to exceed the originally suggested £26 million valuation changes the conversation. If Brentford can reshape their attack with those funds, Wissa’s exit may yet serve both sides.

But the saga is not over. With negotiations ongoing, the situation could hinge on how long Brentford are willing to hold firm. Newcastle, emboldened by the player’s loyalty and firm stance, may wait it out. But the sooner Wissa is integrated into Howe’s plans, the better. Timing matters in pre-season, especially when a player is so eager to make an impression.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

For Newcastle fans, this deal feels like more than just a transfer. It is about momentum, identity, and belief in a project. Wissa’s desire to come here, while turning down other clubs, shows that players are starting to see something serious taking shape at St James’ Park.

The fact that he scored 19 goals in a mid-table side is impressive, but even more so is how determined he is to be part of what we are building. Wissa plays with energy, aggression, and hunger, all traits that suit our team perfectly.

Yes, £35 million is a sizeable fee, but in today’s market, for a forward in his prime, it feels like a justifiable investment. If Isak does leave, we need someone who will carry the weight and lead the line. Wissa can do that. But even if Isak stays, having both gives us genuine threat and depth up front.

If this deal goes through, it will feel like a statement that Newcastle are not only back in Europe but are staying there. A player like Wissa choosing us over others is exactly the kind of shift we have waited years to see.