Report: Newcastle United Eyeing ‘Impressive’ Forward with £84m Release Clause | OneFootball

Newcastle’s Pursuit of Geovany Quenda: A Statement of Intent

Newcastle United are reportedly setting their sights on one of Europe’s brightest young prospects, Geovany Quenda. According to Give Me Sport, the 17-year-old Sporting Lisbon winger is generating interest from multiple Premier League clubs, including Manchester United and Chelsea, alongside European heavyweights such as Arsenal, Liverpool, Manchester City, Bayer Leverkusen, and Juventus.

With a staggering €100m (£84m) release clause, the Magpies face a significant financial challenge, but their ambitions signal their intent to compete at the highest level. However, financial sustainability rules and competition from rival clubs could complicate their pursuit.

Newcastle’s Next Big Move?

Newcastle’s interest in Quenda highlights their long-term strategy of investing in young, explosive talent. Quenda, described as a player with ‘frightening pace,’ made history earlier this season by becoming Sporting’s youngest-ever scorer during his debut in the Portuguese Supercup. Despite his limited goal contributions in the Primeira Liga—one goal in 11 appearances—his potential is undeniable.

Photo IMAGO

Quenda’s impressive debut under Sporting manager Ruben Amorim adds another layer of intrigue. Amorim, now at Manchester United, might play a pivotal role in shaping the race for the young forward. While the Portuguese coach has publicly denied plans to raid his former club, his connections could make United a formidable competitor in this transfer saga.

The Miguel Almirón Factor

The timing of Newcastle’s interest in Quenda aligns with speculation around Miguel Almirón’s potential January exit. Reports suggest that Almirón’s departure could open the door for reinforcements on the wing, with Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo emerging as a ‘top target.’ However, Quenda’s age and versatility make him a more strategic acquisition for the future.

While Newcastle’s summer transfer window was notably quiet due to financial fair play concerns, a big-money move for Quenda would represent a bold shift. The potential deal may require breaking their club transfer record, but the Magpies’ desire to cement their status as a top-four contender could justify the expense.

Photo IMAGO

Competition in the Transfer Market

Newcastle’s bid for Quenda won’t come easy. Competing against clubs like Manchester City, Arsenal, and Juventus requires not just financial clout but also a compelling project. Newcastle’s recent resurgence under Eddie Howe could be a significant draw, particularly for a young player seeking development opportunities in the Premier League.

However, the competition extends beyond finances. Amorim’s ties to Quenda and his admiration for the player could tilt the scales in favour of Manchester United. Additionally, Chelsea and Liverpool, known for their aggressive transfer strategies, are unlikely to bow out without a fight.

Quenda’s Rising Stock

Quenda’s stats this season show a player on the cusp of a breakthrough. While his contributions—one goal in 756 minutes—may seem modest, his expected goals (1.1) indicate a player getting into promising positions. At just 17, the winger has plenty of time to refine his end product under the right guidance.

For Newcastle, securing a talent like Quenda would be a statement of intent, not just to their Premier League rivals but also on the European stage. Whether or not the Magpies can navigate the financial and competitive hurdles remains to be seen, but their pursuit of such a high-profile target is a testament to their growing ambition.

Statistical Analysis by EPL Index

Geovany Quenda is emerging as one of the most talked-about young talents in European football. His performance data, captured in this percentile chart from Fbref, provides a comprehensive insight into his strengths and areas for improvement. Despite his young age and limited senior experience, the Sporting Lisbon winger is already showcasing immense potential.

Attacking Output That Turns Heads

Quenda’s attacking metrics highlight his ability to make an impact in the final third. With a 94th percentile ranking for shot-creating actions and 88th percentile for non-penalty expected goals (npxG), Quenda clearly positions himself as an attacking threat. These numbers suggest that while his one non-penalty goal might seem modest, he consistently finds himself in high-quality scoring positions.

His 74th percentile for assists and 83rd percentile for expected assisted goals (xAG) further underline his creativity. It’s this combination of scoring potential and playmaking ability that makes Quenda such an exciting prospect.

Possession Play Reflects Progression

Quenda’s possession metrics are equally impressive. He ranks in the 99th percentile for progressive carries and progressive passes received, indicating his effectiveness in advancing the ball into dangerous areas. His successful take-ons (97th percentile) highlight his dribbling ability, a critical asset for a winger aiming to disrupt defensive lines.

However, his 32nd percentile for pass attempts and 30th percentile for pass completion suggest room for improvement in his distribution. At just 17 years old, this is an area where he can develop with more game time.

Defensive Contributions Remain Limited

As expected for a winger, Quenda’s defensive stats are less eye-catching. He scores low in clearances (1st percentile) and tackles plus interceptions (17th percentile). While defensive duties aren’t a primary focus for his position, it’s an aspect that could elevate his all-round game.

Geovany Quenda’s stats paint the picture of a precocious talent with the tools to excel at the highest level. As Newcastle and other top clubs circle, this performance data emphasises why he’s such a coveted player.

Photo IMAGO

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

For Newcastle United fans, the potential signing of Geovany Quenda feels like another step toward fulfilling the club’s newfound ambition. After decades of stagnation, the Magpies are finally positioning themselves as serious players in the transfer market, capable of competing with Europe’s elite.

Quenda, with his raw pace and explosive style, perfectly fits the profile of what fans envision for the club’s future. Imagine him marauding down the wings at St James’ Park, electrifying the crowd with his speed and fearlessness. It’s the kind of prospect that would make any Newcastle fan dream big.

Some supporters might argue the club should prioritise proven talent over potential, especially given the high price tag. However, the excitement around Quenda isn’t just about the player himself; it’s about what he represents. A signing of this magnitude would reinforce Newcastle’s place among the Premier League’s elite, signalling that the days of mid-table mediocrity are firmly in the past.

As for the competition, Newcastle fans will hope the club can leverage its vision under Eddie Howe to persuade Quenda to choose Tyneside. The promise of playing regular Premier League football, combined with the passionate fan base and the club’s upward trajectory, could be the deciding factor in what promises to be a fiercely contested transfer race.