Newcastle United could be interested in making a move for a striker who’s set to be available on a free transfer this summer.
Eddie Howe’s side were unfortunate to miss out in qualifying for Europe last season after securing a seventh-place finish.
Manchester United’s unlikely FA Cup victory means Newcastle United won’t be playing in the Europa Conference League next season.
It comes as a significant blow to the Magpies as they bid to remain on the right side of the Premier League’s Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR).
This could lead to Newcastle being slightly more creative in the upcoming transfer window, with incomings likely to depend on sales this summer.
And according to The Sunday Mirror, Newcastle could show interest in signing a Championship striker who’s set to leave his club this month.
READ MORE: Leicester are readying bid to sign Newcastle player who Harvey Barnes has labelled ‘underrated’
Newcastle could move for Kelechi Iheanacho
In an article published today [page 73], The Mirror claims that Newcastle could express an interest in landing Kelechi Iheanacho this summer.
It’s claimed that Iheanacho is set to leave Leicester City on a free transfer, with the Nigerian striker’s contract set to expire on June 30.
Iheanacho struggled for regular starts under former boss Enzo Maresca last term, managing just 10 appearances from the off in the Championship.
The 27-year-old netted six goals last season but looks set to head out the door at the King Power Stadium.
Despite his struggles in the Midlands over the past year, Iheanacho could represent an intriguing option for Newcastle on a free transfer.
Alexander Isak will undoubtedly continue as Howe’s first choice but with claims that Callum Wilson could move on, the Magpies will need to replace the Englishman should he head out the door.
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What Guardiola said about Iheanacho
Before sealing a switch to Leicester back in 2017, Iheanacho popped up with some important goals during the early stages of Guardiola’s tenure.
The Manchester City boss was full of praise for the Nigerian after his departure, admitting he was impressed with his former player’s performances back in 2021.
“Incredible,” Guardiola said. “The quality was there, he was a young player here and I believe in that moment with Gabriel and Sergio we didn’t have much space.
“He is a fantastic person, we had a good relationship, and I’m delighted it’s going well lately.
“He’s playing for the injured [James] Maddison and he links really well with the midfield and he’s good in behind, he’s fast and in the final third he has the right tempo, he is so clear in front of the goal.”