Today’s transfer gossip carries a strong Newcastle theme, with uncertainty surrounding several key players after Eddie Howe’s departure.
The former Magpies manager is unlikely to be paying much attention to transfer speculation for the moment. He may instead be considering a break, thinking about a possible future England interview, while assistant Jason Tindall works on sharpening his first few steps in the style of Anthony Barry.
Newcastle are due to travel to La Manga on Friday for their pre season camp, but Bruno Guimarães’ involvement remains unclear. The Brazilian midfielder is valued at around £75m and continues to attract serious interest from Arsenal.
The latest reports claim a transfer to the Premier League champions has moved closer since Howe left. Guimarães could still join the squad at the airport, meet his teammates in Spain or post a farewell message while preparing for a move to London.
Newcastle face further uncertainty over key players
Guimarães is not the only Newcastle player being linked with an exit following the recent changes at St James’ Park.
Left back Lewis Hall has emerged as a reported target for Manchester United. The interest comes during a turbulent period that has already seen Howe depart after Sandro Tonali joined Tottenham and Anthony Gordon moved to Barcelona.
Joelinton may also be considering his future. Reports suggest the Brazilian midfielder is unhappy with the current situation and could seek a transfer to Saudi Arabia.
Newcastle must now find a manager capable of stabilising the squad and reshaping the team before the new season begins.
Matthias Jaissle has quickly become one of the leading names associated with the vacancy. The 38 year old German has impressed during his spell with Al Ahli, a club that shares ownership links with Newcastle through Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund.
Speculation has already suggested that Jaissle could return to his former club for reinforcements if he takes charge on Tyneside.
Ivan Toney is one possible target. A move would bring the England striker back to the Premier League and provide Newcastle with an established attacking option.
Froholdt considered as possible Guimarães replacement
Newcastle may need to look elsewhere for more realistic signings, especially if Guimarães completes his expected departure.
FC Porto midfielder Victor Froholdt is reportedly under close consideration. Newcastle scouts watched the Denmark international several times last season and are believed to have been impressed by his performances.
The 20 year old already has 12 senior international appearances and could cost close to £70m.
Froholdt is viewed as a potential long term replacement for Guimarães, although Newcastle are also assessing alternative midfield options.
Eintracht Frankfurt’s Hugo Larsson remains linked with the club, while former Nottingham Forest player Danilo is another name under consideration. The Brazilian is currently playing for Botafogo.
Liverpool search for defensive versatility
Liverpool also appear likely to strengthen their squad as the transfer window approaches August.
The club has gaps in central defence and at right back, making a versatile defender a priority. An available and fully fit version of Joe Gomez would solve both problems, but Bournemouth’s James Hill could offer a similar profile.
Hill has experience working under Andoni Iraola and is capable of covering more than one defensive role.
Liverpool may need to pay around £40m to sign the 24 year old and bring him into the plans of their new head coach.
The Reds also continue to face speculation surrounding several midfielders.
Curtis Jones, who has been involved in discussions over Liverpool’s captaincy order, remains linked with Inter Milan.
Dominik Szoboszlai also caused fresh speculation during a post match interview. While discussing the club’s leadership group, he referred to Alexis Mac Allister by saying “if he comes back”.
The comment was quickly interpreted as a possible transfer clue because the Argentina midfielder has been repeatedly associated with Real Madrid.
There is no confirmation that Mac Allister is preparing to leave, but the wording was enough to attract attention from supporters searching for signs of movement.
Atlético Madrid renew interest in Romero
Cristian Romero continues to look like a natural target for Atlético Madrid.
The Spanish club have reportedly revived their interest in the Tottenham centre back and could attempt to complete a deal before the window closes.
Romero’s aggressive defending, physical style and competitive character appear well suited to Diego Simeone’s approach.
Tottenham would be reluctant to lose one of their leading defenders, although Atlético’s renewed interest may test their determination if a substantial offer arrives.
