Newcastle United’s search for attacking reinforcements has taken another twist after hopes of landing Brentford forward Yoane Wissa were hit by fresh complications.
The Magpies have reportedly lined up an improved £35m [$47m] offer for the DR Congo international, but Brentford’s reluctance to sell has forced the club to explore alternative options.
Eddie Howe’s side were confident of wrapping up a deal once Bournemouth’s Dango Ouattara completed a £37m [$50m] switch to the Bees, but the winger reportedly has instead been signed as Bryan Mbeumo’s replacement following his move to Manchester United.
For Newcastle, the situation has only grown more complicated as Brentford are unwilling to sanction Wissa’s exit until they bring in another striker.
Moreover, the Chateauroux academy graduate [France] is valued at around £60m [$81m] by the Bees, while Newcastle are unlikely to go beyond £40m [$54m], according to the ChronicleLive.
Wissa, who is determined to leave the West London club has already deleted all Brentford references from his Instagram profile.
📲Follow The Sporting News on WhatsApp
Yet, the deadlock continues and with no breakthrough in sight, the Magpies are now said to be exploring other options.
Newcastle United enter race for Premier League star
According to French journalist Marc Mechenoua, Newcastle have re-entered the race for Chelsea forward Christopher Nkunku, who has also attracted interest from Bayern Munich and Inter Milan.
Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca is open to selling the 27-year-old on a permanent basis, ruling out a loan deal despite Bayern already testing that route.
Nkunku, tied to Stamford Bridge until 2029, scored 15 goals and registered five assists in 48 appearances last season but has struggled for consistent minutes.
Newcastle’s appeal lies in their push for Champions League football and the uncertainty around Alexander Isak’s future.
The French international’s versatility across attacking roles makes him a key target and Chelsea reinforced transfer speculation by leaving him out of their squad against Crystal Palace on Sunday.
Newcastle news and related links
