It looks like Newcastle United are going to pass up the chance to buy a player who they were very keen to sign in January.
At the start of the year, Newcastle United were in the market for a midfielder. They had a plethora of injuries in the middle of the park, while there were fears that Joelinton was going to be sold due to his contract situation.
Kalvin Phillips was the leading candidate to arrive, until the Magpies changed their mind about the Manchester City man. That proved to be the correct decision, as Phillips went on to endure a torrid time on loan at West Ham.
Another target was Everton’s Amadou Onana, who has been on Newcastle’s radar for a long time. A move for the Belgium international was much more appealing, and it was reported that Eddie Howe’s side were willing to pay £50million to sign him. However, a deal did not come to fruition.
Newcastle no longer in the mix for Amadou Onana
Now Onana is set to be available, with Everton looking to sell the 22-year-old to boost their position with regards to profit and sustainability.
That means Newcastle have the chance to sign a player who they have wanted since he was Sven Botman’s teammate at Lille, but HITC Football insider Graeme Bailey has told Geordie Boot Boys that the Magpies’ transfer priorities lie elsewhere.
“Centre-midfield isn’t a priority for Newcastle United this summer, so I don’t think the Magpies will be in contention for Amadou Onana,” he said.
“That’s why Everton are using intermediaries to find a buyer.
“It’s not that Newcastle don’t like him. They clearly do. And if Bruno were to go tomorrow, Onana would probably be high on the list to replace him. But I don’t think he’s on Newcastle’s radar right now.”
Everton need a financial boost as Newcastle United eye Dominic Calvert-Lewin
Everton are looking to cash in on one of their big hitters, and Onana is the player they have decided to get rid of.
They have a few saleable assets, but Bailey does not believe that Toon target Dominic Calvert-Lewin is one of them, as Newcastle ponder whether or not to sign the 27-year-old striker.
“Everton need to raise funds, and he [Onana] is the player they would ideally like to sell ahead of Jordan Pickford and Jarrad Branthwaite.
“That doesn’t include Calvert-Lewin, who would not leave for huge money if he did go. That wouldn’t solve their financial problems.
“Newcastle’s interest in him will depend on the Callum Wilson situation.”
Calvert-Lewin has been linked with a move to St James’ Park, but only if Callum Wilson leaves. The Everton number nine has been considered as a possible replacement, but that might not be possible.
That is because Everton are now looking to keep the England international. They have opened contract talks with Calvert-Lewin, which would likely end any chance of him moving to Tyneside.
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