He’s free to leave: Newcastle plotting move to sign “crazy” star they’ve already held talks for

Fresh from ending their 70-year trophy drought, Newcastle United are preparing to flex their financial muscle this summer with Chelsea winger Noni Madueke emerging as a prime target.

The Magpies’ potential Champions League qualification could finally unleash the spending power of their Saudi-backed ownership, with the 22-year-old England international identified as the perfect complement to Eddie Howe’s burgeoning attack.

Madueke’s situation at Stamford Bridge has taken an unexpected turn despite his respectable output of seven goals and three assists this Premier League season.

Chelsea’s willingness to entertain offers for the talented winger stems from their impending acquisition of Geovany Quenda, creating an opportunity Newcastle are eager to exploit.

The Magpies came close to securing Madueke last summer before Financial Fair Play concerns scuppered the deal, but their improved financial position and potential Champions League football make them strong contenders this time around.

The statistics reveal why Newcastle view Madueke as a transformative signing:

Madueke’s direct style and superior take-on numbers suggest he could form a devastating partnership with Alexander Isak and Gordon, giving Howe the fluid front three his system demands.

The Chelsea winger’s ability to beat defenders one-on-one and create shooting opportunities (ranking in the 88th percentile for non-penalty goals among wingers) addresses Newcastle’s need for more creativity in wide areas.

Howe’s track record of developing young English talent makes St James’ Park an attractive destination for Madueke, who needs regular minutes to cement his place in Gareth Southgate’s World Cup plans.

Dubbed “crazy” talent by scout Jacek Kulig for his fearless dribbling, the winger has shown flashes of brilliance at Chelsea without consistently earning his manager’s trust. A move to Tyneside could provide the platform he needs to fulfill his undoubted potential.

Newcastle’s interest forms part of a broader strategy targeting Premier League-proven talent, with Bournemouth’s Dean Huijsen also on their radar.

The potential double swoop would significantly strengthen Howe’s options while weakening domestic rivals – a calculated approach that reflects the club’s growing ambition.

For Chelsea, selling to a direct competitor would represent a significant departure from their usual transfer policy, suggesting either financial pressures or reservations about Madueke’s ceiling.

The Blues may regret letting another young English talent flourish elsewhere, especially given his favorable comparison to Gordon in key attacking metrics.

As the summer window approaches, this potential transfer saga encapsulates Newcastle’s evolving status in the Premier League hierarchy. No longer content with shopping in the bargain bin, the Magpies are now targeting elite young talents from top-six rivals – a clear statement of intent as they look to establish themselves as consistent Champions League contenders.

Madueke’s arrival could prove the final piece in Howe’s attacking puzzle, providing the depth and quality needed to compete on multiple fronts next season.