Craig Hope: Newcastle want to sign prolific Champions League star alongside Wissa after ‘fresh encouragement’
The search for attacking reinforcements at St James’ Park has taken a significant turn, with Paris Saint-Germain’s Gonçalo Ramos emerging as a serious target to fill the void left by Alexander Isak’s impending departure.
As the Swedish striker continues his self-imposed exile in pursuit of a move to Liverpool, Newcastle’s recruitment team has identified the Portuguese international as a potential marquee replacement before the transfer window slams shut.
MailOnline’s Craig Hope reports fresh encouragement from Paris that Ramos could be available, with PSG reportedly open to a permanent sale rather than temporary arrangements.
The 24-year-old’s credentials were on full display during Wednesday’s UEFA Super Cup clash against Tottenham, where his late equalizer showcased the clinical instincts that have made him one of Europe’s most promising center-forwards.
Since his €65 million permanent move from Benfica last summer, Ramos has notched 18 goals and six assists across all competitions – including a memorable strike against Real Madrid in the Club World Cup semi-final.
Newcastle’s interest in Ramos forms part of a dual striker strategy, with Brentford’s Yoane Wissa also expected to arrive imminently.
Fabrizio Romano confirms the Congolese forward’s move is progressing rapidly after Brentford secured Bournemouth’s Dango Ouattara as his replacement.
This two-pronged approach demonstrates the Magpies’ determination to adequately replace Isak’s output while adding different dimensions to their attack.
Strategic Squad Building in Full Swing
The potential acquisition of Ramos would cap an increasingly productive window for Newcastle’s recruitment team:
- Defensive Reinforcement – Malick Thiaw’s arrival from AC Milan bolsters central defensive options
- Attacking Depth – Anthony Elanga provides pace and versatility in wide areas
- Goalkeeping Competition – Aaron Ramsdale’s loan adds experience between the posts
Ramos’ profile offers an intriguing blend of technical quality and physical presence. Standing at 6’1″, the Portuguese striker combines aerial prowess with intelligent movement and composure in front of goal – attributes that would suit Eddie Howe’s system perfectly.
His nine goals in just 16 international appearances for Portugal further underline his pedigree at the highest level.
The Isak Factor
With Isak’s relationship with the club seemingly beyond repair, Newcastle face a delicate balancing act. While Liverpool’s interest persists, the emergence of Ramos as a viable alternative gives the Magpies crucial leverage in negotiations.
PSG’s apparent willingness to sell could accelerate the timeline, allowing Newcastle to secure their replacement before sanctioning Isak’s departure.
The financial implications are equally significant. Ramos’ potential arrival would represent a statement signing that could soften the blow of losing Isak, both on the pitch and in the eyes of disillusioned supporters.
His proven track record in multiple competitions offers reassurance that Newcastle wouldn’t be simply replacing goals with potential.
As the transfer window enters its decisive phase, Newcastle’s recruitment team faces its sternest test yet. Securing Ramos would demonstrate their ability to pivot quickly in a fluid market while maintaining ambitious standards.
For Howe, the prospect of integrating both Ramos and Wissa offers exciting tactical flexibility as he prepares for the challenges of European football.
The coming days will reveal whether Newcastle can turn their interest into a concrete offer, but the early signs suggest the Magpies are preparing for life after Isak with characteristic determination.
In Ramos, they may have identified not just a replacement, but a player capable of writing his own chapter in the club’s unfolding story.