Jump to content

Recommended Posts

Arguably as high of a statement signing as Isak but this guy has already proven it on the biggest of stages. We're crying out for someone like him in our midfield tbh. 

Link to post
Share on other sites

Just now, Kanji said:

Arguably as high of a statement signing as Isak but this guy has already proven it on the biggest of stages. We're crying out for someone like him in our midfield tbh. 


This is bigger, much bigger I’d even dare to say mate.

Link to post
Share on other sites

If they pull this one off without a peep it’s further indictment of all the sweaty little freaks on Twitter who churn out “ITK.” They don’t know shiiiiiiit.

 

 

Edited by Deuce

Link to post
Share on other sites

Quote

Newcastle United are pushing hard to complete a sensational deal to sign Inter Milan’s midfield pivot Nicolo Barella in a deal thought to be worth around £50 million.

 

Barella was the key cog in the Inter midfield as they won both domestic cup competitions in Italy and reached the final of the Champions League, narrowly losing to Manchester City.

 

Telegraph Sport understands that Newcastle have earmarked the majority of their transfer budget to sign two midfield players, with Leicester City’s James Maddison the other main target.

Newcastle have been desperate to sign a No.6 this summer to allow Brazil international Bruno Guimaraes to play further up the pitch and Barella would be a stunning upgrade on Jonjo Shelvey, who was allowed to leave for Nottingham Forest back in January.

 

A deal is thought to be reachable, according to multiple sources, with intensive talks taking place over the last few days. But there is still work to do to conclude negotiations. Barella would become Newcastle’s highest earner if they can pull it off and it would be a major statement of the club’s newfound pulling power.

 

Manager Eddie Howe has argued strongly that he needs at least two “elite players” to improve the first team rather than spread a limited budget around on squad players. Barella, who has been capped 43 times by Italy, fits that mould and has been one of the best deep lying midfield players in Europe over the last two years.

 

He also offers a goal threat, scoring eight times in 35 league games for Inter, with another three coming in their run to the Champions League final. Although adept at building play out from the back, receiving the ball from the defenders or goalkeepers, Barella also has a relentless work ethic. His signing would be a huge coup and would delight Howe, who has been looking for a player of his type since he was appointed back in November 2021.

 

The signing, though, will mean concessions have to be made elsewhere. Newcastle’s pursuit of Leicester City’s Maddison remains ongoing and there is a growing optimism  they are edging close to reaching a compromise on the fee. The recently relegated Championship club have been asking for £60 million, but Newcastle are not willing to pay that amount and also face rival interest from Tottenham Hotspur.

 

The potential arrival of these two marquee names would mean Newcastle will desperately need to look for value for money elsewhere if they are going to add more players in this window. Hence their strong interest in Wolfsburg’s Germany international midfielder Felix Nmecha. The 22-year-old, who started his career at Manchester City and played his age group football for England, would cost between £12-15 million.

 

As revealed by Telegraph Sport last week, Newcastle are also keeping a close eye on players at other relegated clubs in the hope they could land another bargain. Southampton’s versatile fullback Kyle Walker-Peters is a particularly intriguing option as he can play on both the left and right side of defence.

 

Link to post
Share on other sites

Just now, Skeletor said:

Is all forgiven with Baldwards if this does happen?

Why would we forgive him, he’s not put his hand in his pocket, whipped out £50m, got a private key, and taxied him from the airport to the training ground.

Link to post
Share on other sites

Create an account or sign in to comment

You need to be a member in order to leave a comment

Create an account

Sign up for a new account in our community. It's easy!

Register a new account

Sign in

Already have an account? Sign in here.

Sign In Now
×
×
  • Create New...