After dropping out of the race to sign Hugo Ekitike, Newcastle United have reportedly turned their focus towards improving their backline with the addition of a Premier League rival.
Newcastle drop out of Ekitike race
In the end it seemed to be a choice of either opening the door for Liverpool to make their move for Alexander Isak or miss out on Ekitike for Newcastle, who swiftly chose to prioritise their Swedish star. As per Fabrizio Romano, the Magpies have now walked away from any potential deal to sign the Eintracht Frankfurt forward, allowing Liverpool to advance.
It’s a frustratingly familiar story for those at St James’ Park this summer. Despite doing well to welcome Anthony Elanga and with James Trafford likely on his way, Eddie Howe has been forced to watch on as the likes of Joao Pedro and now Ekitike head elsewhere. Back to square one on the transfer front, Newcastle must now assess their options.
With pre-season underway and around one month to go until the Premier League is back, there are a number of options that Newcastle could turn towards after missing out on Ekitike, but Yoane Wissa remains the standout name.
The Brentford forward scored 19 Premier League goals last season – more than Ekitike managed in the Bundesliga – and is certainly ready for a big move away from West London.
He remains one to watch, and the same can be said for another Premier League rival as Newcastle look to welcome further fresh faces before the end of August.
Newcastle pushing to sign Disasi
According to Caught Offside, Newcastle are now pushing to sign Axel Disasi from Chelsea after opening negotiations with those at Stamford Bridge. There is reportedly some belief that the Magpies could land a deal for just €30m (£26m), which would be a cut-price from the Blues’ €35m (£30m) valuation.
Related
Newcastle now plotting shock £50m move to sign “brilliant” South American
This would be one of the most unexpected moves of the summer.
Although the Frenchman’s move hasn’t gone exactly to plan at Chelsea, he could quickly rediscover his best form with a summer switch to St James’ Park. It’s there that the 6’3 defender could act as instant competition for Sven Botman and Fabian Schar, before eventually replacing the ageing latter.
|
Premier League stats 24/25 (via FBref) |
Disasi |
Botman |
Schar |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Minutes |
854 |
412 |
2,934 |
|
Progressive Passes P90 |
3.37 |
1.52 |
3.62 |
|
Tackles Won P90 |
0.95 |
1.96 |
0.64 |
|
Ball Recoveries P90 |
3.16 |
3.04 |
4.11 |
Finally gaining some much-needed game time on loan at Aston Villa last season, Disasi impressed at times and began to live up to the praise of U23 scout Antonio Mango, who previously described the defender as “brilliant”.
If Newcastle can land a deal worth just £26m too, then they should consider that an impressive bargain for a defender who should be at the peak of his powers at 27 years old.
