Your Newcastle United transfer round-up for Thursday, February 2.
Surely not?
German title Sport Bild claim the Magpies are “trying to get involved” in the race to sign Jude Bellingham. Staying at Borussia Dortmund beyond the summer is “no longer an option” for England's rising star, the report claims.
Real Madrid and Liverpool are still considered the frontrunners for Bellingham's signature. An impressive season and World Cup campaign for England makes the 19-year-old arguably world football's hottest property.
Signing Bellingham would shatter Newcastle’s transfer approach since the Saudi-backed takeover was completed. While Toon chiefs have spent money, they have done so in a meticulous and measured way.
Spending £100million+ on one player appears out of character - could securing Champions League football change that?
Toon €5m short
Newcastle were €5million short of Flamengo’s valuation for Matheus Franca, according to Globo Esporto. Reports in South America claim the Magpies had three bids rejected for the Brazilian youngster.
Flamengo were also understood to be demanding a 50 percent sell-on clause in any deal, an instant turn-off from Newcastle’s end. The piece suggests Franca, valued by his club at €25million, remains on the Toon’s radar for a potential summer arrival.
Dan Ashworth has taken steps to bolster the club’s academy by making several youth signings since his appointment. Harrison Ashby is the latest example, arriving on deadline day from West Ham United.
Surprise Berge revelation
Newcastle showed the most interest in signing Sander Berge on deadline day, Norwegian outlet TV2 claims. Talk ramped up about a possible exit after the 24-year-old was left out of Sheffield United’s FA Cup clash against Wrexham.
Paul Heckingbottom revealed post-match that clubs were talking to the midfielder. However, Berge ultimately stayed put. Fulham and West Ham were also in the mix but a deal could not materialise.
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