If Newcastle United are looking to dip into the free agent market this summer, they could do a lot worse than Youri Tielemans.
His Leicester City contract is due to expire in the coming weeks, with Tielemans set to be available on a free transfer.
He has been linked with Newcastle a lot over the past 12 months, and has always looked like someone who would be a smart addition – especially on a free.
However, it was recently reported that the Magpies are not going to be making a move for the Belgium international, despite his status as a free agent.
The 26-year-old is yet to agree a move to a new club, and journalist Ben Jacobs has stated that Tielemans would ideally like to remain in the Premier League. And he has hinted that Newcastle could still return to the table for a man who has been described as ‘one of Europe’s top midfielders‘.
Jacobs thinks Newcastle could revisit Tielemans interest
Jacobs has spoke about Tielemans’ future on The Football Terrace YouTube channel, and believes that a move to Newcastle is still not out of the question.
“There’s a few clubs to be honest,” he said.
“I would watch Aston Villa and there’s interest in Turkey, but the player would prefer at this stage to stay in the Premier League compared to Turkey.
“Tielemans won’t be going to Liverpool, I can say that categorically.”
Jacobs added: “Aston Villa and Tielemans are ones to watch. Newcastle might be the kind of club who are not in the running at this point but if they don’t get another target they might pivot.”
Difficult to see Tielemans moving to St James’ Park
While Jacobs might believe that Newcastle could reignite their interest if they fail to sign their other targets, it is difficult to see Tielemans playing for the Magpies next season.
Financially, it makes sense. Getting a player of Tielemans’ calibre on a free is massively appealing. However, there is clearly a reason why Howe’s side have distanced themselves from the former Monaco man.
Given the way Newcastle have operated in the transfer market since the change of ownership, it would be a real surprise if Tielemans suddenly became a target once again. The club have made it clear that they are not going to sign players just for the sake of it, and a move for Tielemans would surely fall into that category given that it has been reported that Newcastle are no longer interested.
His stock has dropped massively over the past 12 months, while he has struggled against Newcastle on more than one occasion. He once looked like a player we must sign, but now it feels like we are better off without Youri Tielemans.
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