Newcastle set for £85m double swoop as Champions League duo targeted & personal terms agreed

Newcastle United are beginning to build momentum in the transfer market as they aim to reshape their squad ahead of a demanding 2025/26 campaign.

While the early weeks of the window were relatively quiet, recent developments indicate that the club is now pressing forward with multiple key deals.

Supporters eager to see fresh faces at St James’ Park may not have to wait much longer, as negotiations intensify for top targets and the groundwork for a major summer rebuild continues.

The first notable piece of business came with the arrival of Antonio Cordero from Malaga. Though only 18 and not expected to feature in the first team immediately, the midfielder is a promising talent who will spend the upcoming season out on loan.

Meanwhile, Lloyd Kelly’s brief time at Newcastle has officially come to an end as he joined Juventus in a permanent deal worth up to £20 million following his initial loan spell. His departure underscores the club’s willingness to reshape its defensive options as they hunt for more consistency and quality.

One of the hottest topics surrounding the club remains the pursuit of Anthony Elanga. Newcastle have been locked in negotiations with Nottingham Forest for several weeks, having seen their initial £45 million offer rejected.

Forest initially appeared reluctant to sell, but that stance has softened, and an improved £55 million bid is now on the table. Although the bid hasn’t been formally accepted, talks are advancing.

Crucially, Elanga is reportedly open to the move and excited by the opportunity to reunite with his friends Alexander Isak and William Osula, and to participate in Champions League football.

If completed, the deal would become Newcastle’s second most expensive signing, trailing only the fee paid for Isak. While nothing is signed yet, the trajectory of discussions suggests a deal is likely.

Another major development centers around Burnley goalkeeper James Trafford. Newcastle had targeted the young English shot-stopper last summer, and their interest has remained firm.

Negotiations were close to completion last week before complications emerged surrounding the final fee. Trafford has already agreed personal terms with Newcastle and is enthusiastic about the move, so the primary holdup remains Burnley’s shifting demands.

Once resolved, the transfer—expected to exceed £30 million—would break the record for the most expensive British goalkeeper, surpassing Jordan Pickford’s move to Everton.

Newcastle’s recruitment strategy this summer focuses on adding a right-winger, a goalkeeper, and a centre-back. Additionally, the club is searching for a versatile forward following failed pursuits of Joao Pedro and Matheus Cunha.

While the additions of Elanga and Trafford are nearing completion, central defence remains a work in progress. Newcastle have long admired Marc Guehi of Crystal Palace, but the asking price and growing interest from Liverpool have led them to explore more cost-effective options abroad.

One such player is Atalanta’s Giorgio Scalvini, a talented 21-year-old centre-back with significant upside but a concerning injury history. Scalvini managed just eight appearances last season due to shoulder and knee problems, and Atalanta are reluctant to sell a homegrown star.

Nevertheless, he fits the long-term profile Newcastle are targeting. Marseille’s Leonardo Balerdi, who brings more experience and a clean bill of health, has also emerged as a viable candidate. Both defenders will participate in this season’s Champions League, just like Newcastle, which could influence their willingness to switch clubs.

As players arrive, others are expected to move on. James Trafford’s arrival would likely spell the end of Martin Dubravka’s time at the club. Though he recently signed a new deal, the Slovakian is eager for regular first-team football.

Nick Pope is set to remain and will compete with Trafford for the number one spot, while third-choice keeper Odysseas Vlachodimos will be available for loan unless a permanent offer materialises.

Midfielder Sean Longstaff, now in the final year of his contract, could also depart if the right offer comes in. Newcastle want to avoid losing him for free next summer, and discussions around his future are ongoing.

Additionally, Callum Wilson, John Ruddy, and Jamal Lewis officially exited the club after their contracts expired. While the club confirmed Lewis wouldn’t be offered a new deal, uncertainty lingers around Wilson and Ruddy.

Both were briefly removed from the club’s official website before being reinstated, suggesting negotiations may still be taking place behind the scenes. Though they are expected to leave, the possibility of new deals cannot yet be ruled out.

As the transfer window progresses, Newcastle continue to position themselves for a crucial summer. With the promise of Champions League football and improved financial flexibility, the club are determined to build a squad capable of challenging on all fronts.

Whether through marquee signings or smart, strategic additions, Newcastle are poised to make their presence felt once again in both domestic and European football.