Midfielder aware Newcastle United want him – Work permit could mean initial loan move

Newcastle United’s interest in Royal Antwerp’s rising star Mahamadou Doumbia has hit a bureaucratic snag, with work permit complications potentially forcing an initial loan move should the Magpies push forward with a deal.

The 21-year-old Malian midfielder has confirmed awareness of Newcastle’s interest alongside Bundesliga side Eintracht Frankfurt, but his path to immediate Premier League action remains obstructed by UK immigration regulations.

Doumbia’s impressive 3,336 minutes across 50 appearances for the Belgian club last season showcased his developing talent, yet his lack of senior international caps for Mali and absence from European competition creates significant hurdles.

Current Governing Body Endorsement (GBE) rules would likely deem the youngster ineligible for direct entry, mirroring similar challenges faced by other African talents moving to England.

This regulatory barrier explains Newcastle’s cautious approach – despite scouting the player extensively, they’ve yet to table a formal offer while exploring solutions.

The most plausible workaround would involve an immediate loan to a European club where Doumbia could gain necessary experience to qualify for a UK work permit.

Such an arrangement would allow Newcastle to secure his signature while circumventing current eligibility issues, following a growing trend among Premier League clubs dealing with similar situations.

For Doumbia, the interest from two major European leagues validates his rapid development at Antwerp.

His combative midfield style and tactical intelligence have drawn comparisons to compatriot Mohamed Camara, though the younger player offers greater technical refinement in possession.

Newcastle’s recruitment team clearly see long-term potential, but must navigate these administrative complexities carefully to avoid another Sofiane Diop-style saga, where work permit issues scuppered a potential move last January.

As the transfer window enters its decisive phase, Newcastle face a calculated risk – commit now to a player who may not contribute immediately, or risk losing him to Frankfurt who face no such restrictions.

The coming days will reveal whether the Magpies view Doumbia as worth the additional logistical effort required to bring him to Tyneside.