The January transfer window is already generating speculation, and for Newcastle United, the focus appears to be on adding even more firepower to an attack that has already undergone a significant summer overhaul.
While the club invested heavily in forwards Nick Woltemade and Yoane Wissa to replace the departed Alexander Isak, reports from Italy suggest that manager Eddie Howe is not done strengthening his options and is considering a move for a seasoned international with a proven pedigree.
According to sources, Newcastle have expressed interest in Roma and Ukraine striker Artem Dovbyk.
The 28-year-old is a vastly experienced operator at the highest level, having been nominated for the Ballon d’Or last year a testament to his standing in the game.
With 11 international goals for Ukraine, his scoring record for his country surpasses the combined total of Woltemade and Wissa for Germany and DR Congo, highlighting a consistency and reliability that comes with maturity.
The interest in Dovbyk is intriguing because it signals a potential shift in strategy. The summer signings of Woltemade and Wissa were investments in the present and future, but Dovbyk represents a pure, ready-now asset.
He is in his prime years, a physically imposing and technically assured center-forward who could offer something different to Howe’s tactical setup.
However, the Magpies are not alone in their admiration. The report also mentions interest from Leeds United, which could set the stage for a competitive bidding war when the window opens.
This potential move comes at a time when the development of Newcastle’s record signing is being closely watched at the highest level.
Germany manager Julian Nagelsmann used the international break to publicly emphasize the importance of regular playing time for Nick Woltemade.
“I hope Nick will play regularly at Newcastle so he can develop in the right way,” Nagelsmann stated, acknowledging the delicate balance between integrating a young talent and competing for immediate results.
This comment underscores the challenge for Howe: he must nurture Woltemade’s immense potential while also ensuring the team gets the points it needs.
Bringing in a player of Dovbyk’s caliber would add a fascinating new dynamic to this equation. On one hand, it would provide elite competition and cover, ensuring the team isn’t overly reliant on its new signings to deliver immediately.
On the other, it could potentially limit the minutes available for Woltemade, which would be a concern for his national team coach.
For Howe, it would be a luxury to have three high-quality strikers for two positions, offering flexibility for different opponents and competitions, especially with Champions League football on the schedule.
Ultimately, a move for Dovbyk would be a statement of ambitious intent. It would show that Newcastle, despite their summer spending, are still looking to add proven, world-class quality to push the team to the next level.
While the existing duo of Woltemade and Wissa offers excitement and potential, Dovbyk would bring a guarantee of goals and experience.
For a club with aspirations of challenging on all fronts, that kind of insurance policy could be invaluable.
