Newcastle United are yet to make a major signing this summer, but are hoping to change that before the new Premier League season kicks off.
The Magpies are on the verge of a £15million deal, with Will Osula set to sign for Newcastle United from Sheffield United. He has been on Tyneside for his medical ahead of his move from the Blades.
But Newcastle are signing Osula because of his potential. He is very much an investment for the future.
They still have their eyes on bigger transfers, as they aim to sign a right-sided centre-back that can be Sven Botman’s long-term partner at St James’ Park.
Newcastle interested in Marc Guehi
The leading candidate to arrive right now is Marc Guehi, with speculation over a deal for Malick Thiaw beginning to slip away.
Newcastle are in talks to sign Guehi from Crystal Palace, in what would be a real statement of intent from Toon officials.
It would be an expensive deal, with Crystal Palace setting an asking price of more than £60million for Guehi.
Newcastle are now becoming more confident after initial Guehi fears
When news of the Magpies’ interest first emerged, Newcastle were fearful that their Guehi deal would get hijacked.
However, that is yet to happen, and journalist Alex Crook provided a promising update on the Guehi situation on TalkSPORT on Sunday.
“It does look as if Newcastle are growing in confidence when it comes to Marc Guehi,” he said.
“I just wondered if there would be more suitors that came out of the woodwork once we heard that Newcastle were in talks. At the moment, it does not appear that way.
“Liverpool have been mentioned. I understand they are not exploring a deal for Marc Guehi. I don’t think Manchester United could afford to meet Palace’s asking price, which is well north of £60million.
“This would be a big move for Newcastle.”
Lack of competition boosts Newcastle’s position
With Liverpool and Manchester United not in the running, Newcastle United might be leading a one horse race for Guehi.
Manchester City have no need for the 24-year-old, while Arsenal recently signed Riccardo Calafiori from Bologna. Elsewhere, Tottenham and Chelsea are well stocked at centre-back.
The Premier League’s ‘big six’ do not appear to be in the mix for Guehi, which could result in the Magpies landing the player they want.
It means they can try and lure him to Tyneside with the PIF project, without the threat of being usurped by a club that can already offer European football. It has been reported that Guehi is open to joining Newcastle, which is very positive.
But even without any competition, it will all come down to how much Newcastle are willing to pay. If they are serious about bringing Guehi to St James’ Park, they are going to have to make him one of the club’s most expensive signings ever.
Newcastle’s confidence is increasing, and hopefully it is not misplaced.
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