Sky Sports: Newcastle keen to sign £30m+ star compared to Bellingham, Howe really wants him

Newcastle United appear determined to strengthen their attacking and midfield departments as they prepare for a season that includes the rigors of European competition.

While Alexander Isak has impressed as the club’s standout striker, the depth behind him raises concerns. Callum Wilson, despite being offered a new contract, has struggled to maintain consistent fitness and form over recent campaigns.

William Osula, though promising, is still in the early stages of his development and not yet ready to shoulder the weight of a European push. This lack of reliable support up front has compelled the Magpies to explore reinforcements that can bring both quality and stability.

Beyond their attacking ambitions, Newcastle are also eyeing improvements in midfield. With the club set to compete on multiple fronts, including a return to the Champions League, the demand for a deeper and more versatile squad has become evident.

Recent developments suggest that Eddie Howe and his recruitment team are particularly focused on securing a midfielder who can slot seamlessly into their high-energy, pressing system. In that pursuit, one name continues to gather momentum—Jacob Ramsey of Aston Villa.

Ramsey, a product of Villa’s youth academy, has quietly become one of the most consistent young midfielders in the Premier League.

Despite battling injuries, he managed to remain a regular figure in the Villa squad, whether starting matches or providing a dynamic option off the bench.

His work rate, technical ability, and positional awareness make him a standout candidate for clubs looking to invest in a player who can contribute immediately while still offering significant long-term value.

In terms of output, Ramsey’s numbers reflect a player who contributes effectively in multiple competitions. In the Premier League, he featured in 29 matches during the 2024/25 season, scoring once and providing five assists across 1,628 minutes.

His contributions in the Champions League included one goal and two assists over ten appearances, showing that he can handle the pressure and pace of elite European competition.

Additional performances in the FA Cup, where he netted twice in five outings, further underlined his growing influence on matches. These performances have not gone unnoticed, especially by a club like Newcastle that values versatility, stamina, and tactical intelligence.

What adds to Ramsey’s appeal is his ability to operate not only in central midfield but also comfortably on the left-hand side. This adaptability would give Eddie Howe greater tactical flexibility, allowing Ramsey to serve as both competition and cover for key players like Anthony Gordon.

The Magpies’ current system demands relentless energy and positional discipline from its midfielders—traits Ramsey has exhibited regularly in a Villa shirt.

At just 24 years of age, he represents the kind of intelligent, physically capable footballer who fits the profile of what Newcastle’s rebuild seeks to achieve.

Aston Villa, aware of Ramsey’s potential and importance, are reportedly holding firm on their valuation of the player. A price tag of at least £30 million has been suggested, and comparisons to England international Jude Bellingham have only raised expectations.

However, from Newcastle’s perspective, such a fee could be seen as a justified investment rather than a risk. With long-term European ambitions and the need for greater squad depth, Ramsey’s arrival would signal both intent and pragmatism.

The allure of Champions League football could also play a crucial role in Ramsey’s decision should negotiations progress.

Newcastle’s recent resurgence under Eddie Howe, coupled with their aggressive approach in the transfer market, may present an attractive proposition for a player looking to elevate his career.

For Newcastle, signing someone of Ramsey’s caliber and versatility would not only enhance their midfield options but also ensure they remain competitive on all fronts during what promises to be a demanding season.

As Newcastle continue to build under their ambitious ownership, signings like Ramsey would represent more than just short-term solutions.

They would be pieces of a broader project aimed at establishing the club as a consistent force in both domestic and European competitions.

Whether or not a deal is finalized remains to be seen, but the interest itself speaks volumes about the direction in which Newcastle are heading.

With a blend of youth, potential, and experience, the recruitment of players like Jacob Ramsey could be a defining feature of their long-term vision.