Talk around Guillaume Restes has gathered serious pace in recent weeks, with plenty of noise suggesting Newcastle United are monitoring the young Toulouse goalkeeper ahead of a possible move in one of the next two transfer windows.
The speculation has been loud, detailed, and persistent, but the reality behind the scenes appears far calmer. Despite the rumours, Newcastle do not currently view Restes as an active transfer target, and no move is being prepared as things stand.
That does not mean Newcastle are relaxed about the goalkeeping situation. In fact, quite the opposite. The club are very aware that strengthening between the posts is a priority as they continue to push their long-term project forward.
Nick Pope remains the undisputed number one when fit, and Eddie Howe holds the England international in very high regard. Pope’s shot-stopping, presence, and experience have been vital since his arrival.
However, there is also an understanding internally that Newcastle’s next step as a team may require a goalkeeper who is more comfortable with the ball at his feet and able to play out under pressure.
During Pope’s absence, Aaron Ramsdale has been given his chance. On loan from Southampton, Ramsdale has shown his strengths in distribution and confidence on the ball. Those qualities fit well with how Howe wants his team to evolve.
That said, his overall performances have been mixed, and he has not fully convinced the coaching staff that he should be the long-term solution. Ramsdale is keen to stay and would welcome a permanent move, which would likely cost around £20 million, but at this stage Newcastle are not expected to activate that option.
Earlier in the season, the goalkeeper Newcastle truly wanted was James Trafford. The Manchester City stopper was widely believed to be on the verge of a move to St James’ Park, and confidence was high that a deal would be done. Trafford himself was reportedly telling people close to him that the switch was close.
However, City stepped in and activated a contract clause, bringing him back to the Etihad and ending Newcastle’s pursuit for now. Trafford’s current wage demands have since placed him beyond Newcastle’s comfort zone, and the club are reluctant to reopen talks with City, particularly given the existing tension surrounding interest in Tino Livramento.
While Trafford fits Newcastle’s ideal profile almost perfectly, being tall, commanding, and comfortable with the ball, Restes does not. That difference is crucial. Restes is a talented goalkeeper with strong potential, but Newcastle do not see him as the right physical fit to become their future number one.
He is noticeably shorter than both Pope and Trafford, and while height is not everything, it remains an important factor in how Newcastle want their goalkeeper to play and dominate the penalty area.
This explains why the Restes rumours have not translated into genuine interest. Newcastle are being selective, patient, and very specific about the type of goalkeeper they want. They are not simply looking for ability, but for a complete package that suits the Premier League and Howe’s tactical demands.
New sporting director Ross Wilson has already confirmed that Newcastle have funds available should the right opportunity arise. Speaking to supporters, he made it clear that the club are always scouting and preparing.
While January spending is expected to be far more controlled than the summer window, Wilson stressed that Newcastle can move if needed. Any deal, however, must fit into the wider squad plan and align with the long-term vision rather than being a short-term fix.
For now, the focus remains on assessing what Newcastle already have, understanding where improvements are truly needed, and ensuring that any move strengthens the team in a meaningful way. Guillaume Restes may be admired elsewhere, but at present, he does not appear to be the answer Newcastle are looking for.
