A recent update suggests that Newcastle United is now the front-runner to capture a Premier League player this summer.
Newcastle’s January transfer window
The failure to make a senior acquisition for Eddie Howe’s team in the winter market forced the Magpies and PIF to give up. Alfie Harrison, a young player, completed his transfer from Manchester City to Newcastle, despite there was one arrival.
However, the club didn’t lose any of their senior stars, despite the likes of Kieran Trippier, Callum Wilson and Miguel Almiron all being heavily linked with a St James’ Park exit. Javier Manquillo did seal a move away, whereas Isaac Hayden also left on loan.
In a statement regarding the club’s financial status last month, Howe stated: “As manager, my preference would be to keep the squad together and try to produce a team that wins games.”
However, we want to make the best choices possible for both FFP and the club because we are the custodians of the team’s future. We wish to avoid violating FFP. That is the area in which I will back actions made that will benefit the club in the long run.
When questioned about the possibility of having a substantial budget for transfers in the summer by refraining from activity in January, Howe responded, “Certainly not. I don’t think there is such a thing now with FFP. The ‘war chest’ days are gone. Every club is doing what we’re doing. The market is different this year. It’s a totally different January compared to 12 months ago. The summer may well be the same, in the sense that it’s a different way of doing transfer business now for football clubs.”
Nevertheless, despite this stance, there has been considerable speculation regarding a potential move for Everton midfielder Amadou Onana, as Newcastle officials are reportedly impressed by the player, and a new update on the situation has emerged.
Amadou Onana to Newcastle update
Journalist Pete O’Rourke of Football Insider claims that Onana, who has also been connected to Arsenal, is being chased by PIF and Newcastle. The Belgian, who is valued at £60 million by Everton, is favored by the Magpies.
The 22-year-old has shown promise in several top-flight Toffees games this season and has been a consistent member of Sean Dyche’s squad.
| Amadou Onana’s best Premier League games for Everton – 23/24 | WhoScored |
|---|---|
| Burnley 0-2 Everton | 8.52/10 |
| Everton 3-0 Bournemouth | 7.69/10 |
| Brentford 1-3 Everton | 7.42/10 |
| Luton 1-2 Everton | 7.33/10 |
| West Ham 0-1 Everton |
Roberto Martinez expressed admiration for Amadou Onana in 2022, stating, “He’s a truly thrilling footballer. I know that measuring potential can be challenging, but we’re talking about a 20-year-old who is arguably one of the most talented young players in European football. That’s how enthusiastic we are in Belgium.”
Martinez highlighted Onana’s experience in both the German and French leagues, as well as his substantial transfer to Lille. He emphasized Onana’s resilience in facing new challenges after a significant transfer fee, noting his physicality and resemblance to the well-known player Marouane Fellaini. Martinez acknowledged the excitement surrounding Everton, declaring Onana as one of the most promising prospects in European football at the time.