Newcastle United are reportedly interested in signing a “world-class” player for a cut-price amount this summer, with the individual in question “almost certain” to leave his current club.
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The Magpies are preparing to trade Premier League commitments for FA Cup action this weekend, following the 2-0 defeat away to Liverpool in midweek.
If anything, Sunday’s visit of Brighton represents the more important game of the two, with Eddie Howe‘s men having a good chance of going all the way in the competition this season. Granted, there is already the Carabao Cup final to focus on next month, but there aren’t many of the ‘top’ clubs left in their way in the FA Cup either.
In terms of Newcastle transfer rumours, a swap deal involving Juventus attacker Kenan Yildiz and St James’ Park favourite Sandro Tonali has been mooted, although Howe will surely be desperate to retain the services of one of his most important players.
Meanwhile, Kalidou Koulibaly has been mentioned as an option to come in and boost the defence this summer, with the Senegalese veteran now plying his trade at Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal. It may be that Paul Mitchell looks at younger defensive targets instead, though.
Newcastle eyeing “world-class” £24.7m ace
According to TVPlay [via Sport Witness], Juve midfielder and Newcastle target Douglas Luiz is “almost certain” to leave this summer. The Brazilian is now available for just £24.7m and the Magpies are “ready to evaluate” a move for him, having initially been valued at around £37.1m.
Luiz is a player who has built an impressive career for himself, even though things at Juve haven’t gone too swimmingly this season, with only three starts and 481 minutes of Serie A action coming his way.
The 26-year-old is still at a great age, in terms of Newcastle having him in their ranks for plenty of years before he peaks, and journalist Quentin Gesp has described him as “world-class”. Meanwhile, Villa sporting director Monchi has also spoken fondly of him, despite his struggles this season: “He’s playing less than we all expected, but we’re talking about a strong player.
“There are guys who arrive and impose themselves, others who need time. Patience is needed, but Douglas’ qualities are beyond discussion. He will become important for Juve. He’s a playmaker and every ball that comes out of his feet has a meaning: last year he played 90% of the games with us. He was decisive.”
In Luiz, Newcastle would be signing a player with a huge amount of Premier League experience, making 175 appearances in the competition, not to mention being an 18-cap Brazil international.
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The only downside to the Magpies snapping him up would be if it meant Tonali heading in the opposite direction, but if that doesn’t happen, he can help make Howe’s midfield even more formidable in the coming years.
