Newcastle United have now identified an “incredible” Premier League forward as their ideal summer target, but a deal could amount to as much as £65m, according to a report.
Magpies planning to sign new forward
Despite widespread interest in Alexander Isak, Newcastle should be in a strong position to keep hold of their star striker this summer, given that he will still have three years remaining on his contract by the end of the season.
Champions League qualification could play a big role in convincing Isak to extend his stay at St. James’ Park, which would arguably be better than any new signing, but the Magpies are also keen on bringing in additional options in attack.
Atalanta’s Ademola Lookman is among the options, with sporting director Paul Mitchell planning to hold talks over a deal for the forward, while Eddie Howe has held direct talks with Ipswich Town’s Liam Delap, who is in line to leave the Tractor Boys for just £30m this summer.
Elite Isak alternative: Liverpool in contact to sign the "the new Haaland"
Liverpool’s main transfer priority this summer is to sign a new striker.
1 ByAngus Sinclair
Delap isn’t the only Premier League forward on the shortlist, however, with a report from Caught Offside revealing Newcastle are keen on signing Brentford star Bryan Mbeumo, having identified the right-winger as their ideal summer target.
Given the level of Mbeumo’s performances this season, a deal will not be cheap, with Brentford setting an asking price of around £60m – £65m, and there could be a great deal of competition for his signature.
Manchester United are now preparing an opening bid for the 25-year-old, while Liverpool, Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur are closely monitoring his situation, so it may be difficult for the Magpies to get a deal done.
"Incredible" Mbeumo could be perfect signing for Newcastle
The France-born forward has largely featured at right-wing this season, where he has flourished in front of goal, picking up 18 goals and seven assists in 35 Premier League outings, which ranks the Brentford star as the league’s joint-fifth top scorer.
Jacob Murphy has also done a stellar job on the right flank, amassing eight goals and 11 assists in the league, but Howe will need strength in depth if his side are to compete on all fronts next season, with a Champions League campaign in the pipeline.
Having performed extremely well in the Premier League this season, the Cameroon international has proven he is ready to make the step-up to a side part of Europe’s elite competition, and he has impressed manager Thomas Frank in the process.
The Dane lauded Mbeumo as “incredible” after scoring in Brentford’s 4-2 victory against Brighton & Hove Albion last month, so it is exciting news that Newcastle have selected him as an ideal target, but given the widespread interest, it could be difficult to win the race for the forward’s signature.