Exclusive: £50m star now ‘very high’ on Newcastle’s radar after missing out on Joao Pedro deal
Newcastle United have identified Liverpool’s Harvey Elliott as a prime target to solve their right-wing dilemma after failing to secure primary options Bryan Mbeumo and Joao Pedro.
The Magpies’ recruitment team have elevated the 21-year-old England U21 star to the top of their shortlist following his outstanding European Championship campaign and growing uncertainty about his Anfield future.
TBR Football can reveal Newcastle were monitoring Elliott’s situation even before Liverpool’s new management signaled potential openness to a sale.
The creative midfielder-turned-winger has grown frustrated with limited opportunities under Arne Slot, making just 15 Premier League starts last season despite his obvious talent.
His electrifying performances for England’s U21s – where manager Lee Carsley described him as “outstanding” and “one of many who has stood up” – have only strengthened Newcastle’s conviction that he could thrive with regular first-team football.
Liverpool value their academy product at around £50 million, a figure that reflects both his potential and the premium for homegrown talent under PSR rules. While RB Leipzig have also registered interest, Newcastle believe Elliott’s skill set perfectly addresses their needs.
His ability to operate as a traditional winger or drift inside as a playmaker offers Eddie Howe tactical flexibility, while his set-piece delivery and creativity would ease the burden on Bruno Guimarães in chance creation.
The potential move represents an intriguing crossroads for both player and club. Elliott faces stiff competition at Liverpool from Mohamed Salah, Dominik Szoboszlai, and new signing Anthony Gordon.
At St James’ Park, he would immediately challenge Jacob Murphy for the starting right-wing berth while providing cover in central areas. His energy and pressing intensity align perfectly with Howe’s demands, while his technical quality could help unlock defenses that sat deep against Newcastle last season.
Financially, the deal presents challenges but remains feasible within Newcastle’s summer budget. The club walked away from £60 million negotiations for Joao Pedro on principle, suggesting they have significant funds available for the right target.
Elliott’s age (21), Premier League experience, and room for growth make him a more attractive long-term investment than older alternatives, while his homegrown status provides additional squad registration benefits.
Newcastle’s interest also reflects a strategic shift in their transfer approach. After missing out on established targets, they’re pivoting toward high-potential talents who can develop into stars rather than finished products.
Elliott fits this profile perfectly – a player with elite technical foundations who needs regular minutes to reach his ceiling. His 11 goal contributions last season (4 goals, 7 assists) in limited minutes suggest untapped productivity waiting to be unleashed.
As preseason preparations intensify, Newcastle’s hierarchy must decide whether to meet Liverpool’s valuation or risk another summer of settling for secondary targets.
With Elliott clearly ready for a more prominent role and Newcastle desperate for creative reinforcements, this could become one of the window’s most mutually beneficial deals.
The coming weeks will reveal whether the Magpies can turn their frustrating transfer window around by securing one of England’s most exciting young talents.