Newcastle United in talks to beat Arsenal to signing of Spanish star once valued at £100m

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Newcastle United are looking to continue their push for European football as Paul Mitchell considers his options.

After a quiet summer transfer window in regards to incoming players, Paul Mitchell must hit the ground running in January to keep Newcastle’s momentum going.

It’s no surprise that Newcastle want more depth in attack, summer signing William Osula hasn’t made an impact and Callum Wilson remains sidelined for several weeks.

The right wing has been a longstanding issue for Newcastle, the summer sale of Yankuba Minteh didn’t help that either.

Now, Miguel Almiron looks set to leave in January as clubs in the USA and Brazil express interest.

However, a new transfer report suggests that Newcastle have found someone who could play in the positions they need, it wouldn’t break the bank either.

PSG open to selling Marco Asensio amid Newcastle interest

Marco Asensio has fallen out of favour at PSG under head coach Luis Enrique. The 28-year-old has made 15 appearances in all competitions this season, including four games in the Champions League.

However, the Spaniard only played 11 minutes worth of Ligue 1 football in December – he has been an unused substitute in three of PSG’s last four league games.

According to CaughtOffside, Asensio is willing to leave the French capital in January – he is reportedly in talks with Newcastle and Aston Villa over a move.

The report suggests he would be available for around £24.9million but the two clubs would prefer a loan move until the end of the 2024/25 campaign. It also states that Arsenal are interested in the 28-year-old alongside La Liga sides Real Sociedad and Real Betis.

Toon boss Eddie Howe wants a striker and a winger in January, Asensio can play on the right wing despite playing as a centre-forward in most games for PSG this season.

During his time at Real Madrid, Asensio was once valued at £100m according to the Daily Mail. He has previously been linked with a move to Premier League leaders Liverpool.

Asensio doesn’t fit the bill at Newcastle

Signing Asensio would be a statement to show Newcastle can sign big names despite problems with PSR. However, a signing like this wouldn’t align with Mitchell’s transfer strategy.

Mitchell wants to recruit youth from overseas. At 28, Asensio is barely a spring chicken in football.

The Magpies also need to sell before they can buy, making a move for Asensio, who is sure to have high wage demands more difficult.

Howe may consider a move for the Spaniard as a mobile one despite any reluctance from Mitchell – he has the ability to play as a midfielder, winger and centre-forward if need be.