Newcastle leading race to sign £25m “superstar” who’s the perfect Delap alternative

Newcastle United’s pursuit of Ipswich Town striker Liam Delap has ended in frustration, with Chelsea securing the 22-year-old’s signature after triggering his £30 million release clause.

While this represents a setback for Eddie Howe’s transfer plans, the Magpies’ Champions League status ensures they remain attractive to high-caliber alternatives – with Juventus’ Dusan Vlahovic emerging as a prime target.

The Delap Dilemma

Delap’s decision to join Chelsea rather than Tyneside undoubtedly stings. The young forward demonstrated his Premier League potential despite Ipswich’s relegation, netting 12 goals and earning praise from scouts like Jacek Kulig, who predicted “a huge future ahead” for the Manchester City academy product.

Newcastle had identified Delap as an ideal rotational option behind Alexander Isak, particularly with Callum Wilson’s expected departure.

However, the club’s recruitment team has already pivoted to more established targets who could provide both competition and cover for their Swedish talisman.

Vlahovic: A Cut-Price Opportunity

According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Newcastle lead the race for Juventus striker Dusan Vlahovic, with Turkish clubs Galatasaray and Fenerbahce also monitoring the situation. At just £25 million – £5 million less than Delap’s valuation – the Serbian international represents intriguing value for a player once considered among Europe’s most promising forwards.

Dusan Vlahovic’s Recent Performance Data

Data via Transfermarkt

While Vlahovic hasn’t fully replicated the form that convinced Juventus to pay £67 million in 2022, his underlying numbers remain impressive. This season, he ranks in:

• Top 24% of forwards for goals scored
• Top 11% for shots taken
• Top 10% for touches in attacking penalty area

(per FBref)

Tactical Fit at St. James’ Park

At 6’3″, Vlahovic offers a physical presence reminiscent of Delap, but with greater experience at elite levels. His movement in the box would complement Isak’s more rounded, link-up play, giving Howe different attacking options depending on opposition.

The Serbian’s struggles in Turin may reflect systemic issues rather than individual decline. As journalist Andrew Cesare noted during his Fiorentina days, Vlahovic possesses “real superstar” potential that could be unlocked in Newcastle’s progressive system.

Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo remains another serious target, with the Cameroonian winger/striker hybrid offering versatility across the frontline.

His Premier League experience (25 goal contributions in 2023/24) makes him an attractive option, though likely more expensive than Vlahovic.

The Road Ahead

Newcastle’s recruitment team faces key decisions:

1. Push aggressively for Vlahovic – His reduced price and pedigree make him a calculated gamble
2. Prioritize Mbeumo – A safer Premier League-proven option, but potentially costlier
3. Explore other markets – Younger prospects or different profiles may emerge

With Champions League football secured, Newcastle have leverage in negotiations that few rivals can match. While Delap’s choice represents a missed opportunity, it may ultimately lead them to a more accomplished striker better suited to their immediate ambitions.

The coming weeks will reveal whether Vlahovic becomes the latest statement signing at St. James’ Park – a player capable of reigniting his career while propelling Newcastle to new heights domestically and in Europe.