Newcastle United is reportedly eyeing a high-profile striker who could present significant competition for Nick Woltemade. According to Portuguese newspaper Record, the Magpies have set their sights on Luis Suarez of Sporting Lisbon.
Newcastle’s pursuit of offensive reinforcements is understandable given their disappointing season, which will result in a year without international competition. The squad is expected to undergo a significant overhaul this summer. Simultaneously, the club is reportedly forced to make some sales due to the strict financial regulations in the Premier League. Key player Anthony Gordon, heavily linked with a move to Bayern Munich, could be a significant source of income.
Furthermore, Bruno Guimaraes and William Osula are also being discussed as potential departures who could also command high transfer fees. The German record champions are reportedly also interested in Osula.
Woltemade Lacks a Starting Spot and Primarily Plays Out of Position
Osula had recently earned a regular starting position at Newcastle, despite reportedly agreeing to a move to Eintracht Frankfurt in the summer following the signings of Woltemade and Yoane Wissa. However, the Magpies blocked the transfer and insisted on his continued presence at the club.
Woltemade, since his strong start to the season with four goals in the first five games, has been rotating between the bench and the starting lineup. The challenge is that coach Eddie Howe has increasingly deployed the German international, when he has played, as a withdrawn central midfielder rather than a pure striker. The 1.98-meter tall player, signed from VfB Stuttgart for €75 million, has contributed to 15 goals in 48 appearances for Newcastle so far.
Suarez’s Incredible Numbers for Sporting
Suarez, who is not related to the famous Uruguayan striker of the same name, is enjoying a sensational season for Sporting. He has scored 35 goals and provided nine assists in 50 appearances. A potential transfer fee of €80 million is being discussed, as the Colombian international is under contract until 2030.
In addition to the 28-year-old, recent rumors have also linked Newcastle with an interest in Dominic Solanke of Tottenham Hotspur, whose price tag is said to be €75 million. Darwin Nunez, on the other hand, would represent a considerably cheaper alternative. The Uruguayan’s contract with Al Hilal has reportedly been terminated, which is why he has also been mentioned as a potential free transfer target for Newcastle in the summer.