Report says Newcastle are now looking at 26yr old international striker with €90M release clause
The Magpies’ hunt for attacking reinforcements has uncovered another intriguing option as reports surface linking Newcastle with Benfica’s Greek international Vangelis Pavlidis.
The 26-year-old marksman, who announced himself to English audiences with a devastating brace against Gareth Southgate’s side at Wembley last October, has rocketed onto Eddie Howe’s radar following Benjamin Šeško’s decision to join Manchester United.
Pavlidis’ credentials make compelling reading for a Newcastle side desperate to replace Alexander Isak’s output.
The powerful striker racked up 30 goals and 13 assists across all competitions for Benfica last season, demonstrating the clinical finishing and creative link-up play that has seen him develop into one of Europe’s most complete forwards.
His performance against England – where he outmuscled Premier League defenders before slotting a 94th-minute winner – proved he can thrive against elite opposition.
While Pavlidis carries an £87 million release clause, Newcastle’s recruitment team believe negotiations could bring that figure down to a more realistic valuation.
The Greek international’s physicality and penalty box instincts make him an ideal fit for Howe’s system, offering a different profile to alternative target Samu Agehowa.
Where the Porto youngster mirrors Isak’s elusive movement, Pavlidis would provide traditional target man qualities while maintaining technical refinement – a rare combination that saw Manchester United consider him as Šeško backup.
The striker dilemma encapsulates Newcastle’s broader transfer challenges. Pavlidis offers proven quality but limited resale value at 26, while 21-year-old Agehowa represents greater long-term potential but carries higher risk.
Both would command fees exceeding £60 million in a market where Newcastle have already seen multiple targets slip away.
Benfica’s tough negotiating stance – honed through years of lucrative player sales – means any deal for Pavlidis would require careful diplomacy.
The Portuguese champions only acquired the striker last summer from AZ Alkmaar for €17 million, and his contract runs until 2028, giving them little incentive to compromise on valuation.
As Newcastle’s preseason preparations intensify, the hierarchy must decide whether to pursue Pavlidis’ immediate impact or gamble on Agehowa’s potential.
One thing remains certain – with Isak’s departure looming and the new season approaching, the Magpies can ill afford another transfer window of missed opportunities.
Pavlidis’ Wembley heroics demonstrated he thrives under pressure; now Newcastle must determine if he’s worth the premium required to test that mettle in black and white.