£50m Wissa alternative is emerging as a leading target for Newcastle, he’d love Elanga
Newcastle United’s search for attacking solutions continues as the club navigates the ongoing absence of star striker Alexander Isak, who remains determined to secure a move away from St James’ Park.
Manager Eddie Howe faced his first major test of the season during their Premier League opener against Aston Villa, where he deployed Anthony Gordon as an unconventional center-forward supported by new signing Anthony Elanga and Harvey Barnes on the wings.
The tactical adjustment yielded mixed results in a goalless draw, though Elanga’s debut performance provided genuine cause for optimism.
The Swedish international, who joined from Nottingham Forest this summer, showcased the explosive pace that made him a priority target, recording 23 sprints and reaching a top speed of 35.3 km/h according to Sofascore data.
His ability to create two scoring opportunities while adapting to a new system demonstrated why Newcastle invested significantly in his services.
Despite Elanga’s promising start, the overall attacking structure appeared unbalanced without a natural center-forward.
Gordon, typically more effective operating from wide areas or in supporting roles, struggled to provide the focal point needed against Villa’s organized defense.
This performance underscored the urgent need for Newcastle to secure a proven striker before the transfer window closes, especially with Isak’s future remaining uncertain.
Newcastle’s Striker Options Analysis
| Player | Club | Age | PL Goals (Last Season) | Estimated Fee | Strengths |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ollie Watkins | Aston Villa | 29 | 16 | £50m | Proven scorer, movement |
| Yoane Wissa | Brentford | 28 | 12 | £40m | Pace, finishing |
| Nicolas Jackson | Chelsea | 24 | 9 | £45m | Potential, physicality |
| Jørgen Strand Larsen | Wolves | 25 | 14 | £35m | Aerial ability, hold-up |
Among the numerous names linked with Newcastle, Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins has emerged as a primary target according to recent reports.
The England international represents the profile of ready-made Premier League striker that Newcastle desperately need.
His consistent goal-scoring record—75 goals in 185 Premier League appearances—demonstrates the reliability that has made him one of the division’s most respected forwards.
Watkins’ potential availability hinges on Villa’s own transfer business, specifically their ability to secure Chelsea’s Nicolas Jackson as his replacement.
This domino effect illustrates the interconnected nature of the transfer market, where one move can trigger multiple transactions.
At £50 million, Watkins would represent a significant investment for Newcastle, but his proven track record suggests he could provide immediate solutions to their attacking concerns.
The partnership potential between Watkins and Elanga appears particularly promising based on their complementary styles.
Elanga’s preference for “attacking the space” and carrying the ball forward aligns perfectly with Watkins’ self-described “bread and butter” of “running in behind and causing the defense trouble.”
This symbiotic relationship could unlock Newcastle’s counter-attacking potential and provide the cutting edge they lacked against Villa.
Watkins’ Premier League Goal Record
| Season | Appearances | Goals | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2020/21 | 37 | 14 | 5 |
| 2021/22 | 35 | 11 | 2 |
| 2022/23 | 37 | 15 | 6 |
| 2023/24 | 37 | 19 | 13 |
| 2024/25 | 38 | 16 | 8 |
Watkins’ consistency sets him apart from other potential targets. He has reached double figures for goals in all five of his Premier League seasons, with his best campaign coming in 2023/24 when he registered 19 goals and 13 assists.
This level of productivity would significantly ease the goal-scoring burden on other attacking players and provide Newcastle with the reliable focal point they currently lack.
The financial aspect of any potential deal cannot be overlooked. While £50 million represents substantial investment for a 29-year-old, Watkins’ Premier League experience and immediate impact potential might justify the expenditure compared to riskier options from abroad.
His familiarity with the league’s physical demands and tactical requirements would allow for seamless integration into Howe’s system.
Newcastle’s broader transfer strategy appears focused on building around young, athletic attackers who can execute Howe’s high-pressing system.
Elanga’s acquisition at 22 and continued interest in players like Watkins who excel in transitional situations suggests a clear philosophical approach.
The potential addition of Watkins would provide leadership and experience to balance the youthful exuberance of players like Gordon and Elanga.
As the transfer window enters its final days, Newcastle face crucial decisions that could define their season. The resolution of Isak’s situation remains pivotal, but regardless of his future, securing an established striker appears essential for their ambitions.
Watkins represents the safest option among available targets, though the club must weigh his age against potential resale value and long-term planning.
The coming weeks will reveal whether Newcastle can secure their primary targets or whether they’ll need to explore alternative options.
What remains clear is that their current attacking options require reinforcement, and the right signing could transform their prospects for the season ahead.