Liverpool strike double Newcastle United transfer blow as summer targets lined up

Newcastle United may have claimed a memorable victory over Liverpool in the Carabao Cup final at Wembley last weekend, but the Reds are reportedly planning to strike back in the summer transfer window by targeting two players high on the Magpies’ wishlist.

While Newcastle’s triumph ended a 56-year wait for a major trophy, the club’s ambitions are far from satisfied. Eddie Howe and sporting director Paul Mitchell are already preparing for a busy summer, with the aim of strengthening the squad to compete for Champions League qualification.

However, their plans could face a significant setback, as Liverpool are said to be leading the race for two key targets: Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi and Brentford winger Bryan Mbeumo.

Newcastle’s Carabao Cup success has injected fresh momentum into their project, and the club’s hierarchy is determined to build on this achievement.

With the potential for eight guaranteed games in the Champions League if they secure a top-five finish in the Premier League, the Magpies are expected to have additional funds to invest in the transfer market. The focus will be on quality over quantity, with specific positions identified for reinforcement.

However, their pursuit of Guehi and Mbeumo could be complicated by Liverpool’s interest, as Arne Slot’s side look to bolster their squad ahead of the new season.

Marc Guehi has been a long-standing target for Newcastle, with the club making concerted efforts to sign the England international during the 2024 summer transfer window.

Despite their interest, a deal with Crystal Palace failed to materialize due to disagreements over the transfer fee. Guehi, whose contract at Selhurst Park expires in 2026, is now expected to leave the Eagles this summer, as Palace look to avoid losing him on a free transfer the following year.

Newcastle remain keen on securing his services, but reports suggest that Liverpool are currently in pole position to sign the 24-year-old. The Reds are seeking a long-term partner for Virgil van Dijk in central defense and view Guehi as the ideal candidate.

While Newcastle are also in the market for a center-back to pair with Sven Botman, Liverpool’s strong position in the Premier League and their Champions League pedigree could give them the edge in the race for Guehi’s signature.

In addition to Guehi, Liverpool are also said to be targeting Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo, another player on Newcastle’s radar. The 24-year-old winger has enjoyed an outstanding season, scoring 15 goals and providing five assists in 29 Premier League appearances.

His impressive form has attracted interest from several top clubs, including Newcastle, who are looking to add competition for Jacob Murphy on the right flank. However, Liverpool’s need for attacking reinforcements could see them swoop for Mbeumo.

Speculation continues to surround Mohamed Salah’s future at Anfield, while Darwin Nunez’s potential departure and the inconsistent goal contributions from Diogo Jota, Cody Gakpo, and Luis Diaz have highlighted the need for additional firepower in Liverpool’s attack. Mbeumo’s versatility, pace, and eye for goal make him an attractive option for Slot’s side.

Securing both Guehi and Mbeumo would require significant financial investment, with bids in the region of £60 million likely needed for each player. While Newcastle have the resources to compete in the transfer market without breaching Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR), they will need to prioritize their spending carefully.

The club’s ability to offer Champions League football could be a decisive factor in their pursuit of top targets, but Liverpool’s established status as one of Europe’s elite clubs presents a formidable challenge.

For Newcastle, losing out on Guehi and Mbeumo to Liverpool would be a double blow, but it would also underscore the competitive nature of the modern transfer market. The Magpies’ rise under their new ownership has been impressive, but they are still navigating the complexities of competing with traditional powerhouses like Liverpool.

As the summer window approaches, the battle for these two players will serve as a litmus test for Newcastle’s ability to attract top talent and continue their upward trajectory.

Ultimately, the outcome of these transfer pursuits could have significant implications for both clubs. For Liverpool, landing Guehi and Mbeumo would address key areas of need and reinforce their squad for a renewed title challenge.

For Newcastle, missing out on these targets would be a setback, but it would also highlight the need for strategic planning and alternative options as they aim to establish themselves as a consistent force in English and European football. The summer transfer window promises to be a fascinating chapter in the ongoing rivalry between these two historic clubs.