Newcastle set to be offered £60M signing with new release clause active – Report
Newcastle United could soon find themselves with another opportunity to sign one of Europe’s most prolific strikers, a player who has struggled to secure a place at his current club.
With the club’s recent quiet transfer windows, there is growing speculation that a marquee signing could be on the horizon, particularly with the funds generated from January moves involving Miguel Almirón and Lloyd Kelly.
However, despite the potential excitement surrounding such a move, the likelihood of this striker arriving at St. James’ Park remains uncertain, especially if Alexander Isak continues to lead the line next season.
Reports suggest Newcastle may once again be offered the chance to secure the services of Napoli’s Victor Osimhen. The Nigerian forward, previously linked with a move to Tyneside, has remained a sought-after talent despite his recent challenges.
Last summer, Newcastle hesitated at his high asking price, but with his £60 million release clause set to become active, discussions around his future have intensified. Osimhen is nearing the end of his loan spell at Galatasaray, where he has managed to score 17 goals in 28 appearances, proving his ability to remain effective despite a difficult spell with Napoli.
Sources close to the situation indicate that Osimhen’s representatives are once again positioning him as a viable target for Newcastle.
Head of recruitment Steve Nickson previously scouted Osimhen during his time at Lille, before the club ultimately opted for the £63 million signing of Alexander Isak.
While Newcastle’s interest in the Nigerian striker remains unclear, the prospect of securing a proven goal scorer remains an enticing option. However, several factors complicate the potential move, with cost being one of the most significant concerns.
Investing £60 million in Osimhen would make him one of the most expensive signings in Newcastle’s history, representing a major allocation of their summer transfer budget.
His reported wages, which are believed to be around £200,000 per week, would place additional strain on the club’s financial structure, especially with the expectation of Isak securing a new and improved deal. Given the Premier League’s financial fair play regulations, committing to such a high-cost transfer would require significant adjustments elsewhere in the squad.
Another major obstacle to Osimhen’s arrival is Eddie Howe’s tactical setup. Newcastle operates with a single central striker, making it difficult to accommodate both Osimhen and Isak in the same starting lineup.
With Isak thriving in the system, signing another high-profile forward could create unnecessary competition and disrupt the squad’s balance. Managing the playing time of two elite strikers would be a challenge, and very few clubs can afford to keep both satisfied without creating tension within the squad.
While Osimhen’s quality is undeniable, Newcastle must carefully assess whether this is a move that aligns with their long-term strategy. The club’s focus has been on building a squad with a sustainable structure, ensuring financial stability while remaining competitive at the highest level.
Although Osimhen’s availability presents a tempting opportunity, it is unlikely that Newcastle will move forward with a deal unless circumstances change dramatically.
Newcastle fans may dream of a world-class strike partnership, but the reality is that the club must make calculated decisions that prioritize the team’s overall needs.
If Isak remains, the likelihood of adding another marquee striker diminishes significantly. However, should any unexpected departures occur, Newcastle may have no choice but to reconsider their stance on Osimhen.
Until then, speculation will continue, but the focus remains on strengthening the squad in a way that aligns with the club’s ambitions and financial strategy.