Newcastle United in talks with superstar who made controversial Saudi move: report

Newcastle United are once again turning heads as reports suggest they have reignited interest in a former transfer target who made headlines with a controversial switch to the Saudi Pro League.

As the Premier League season draws to a dramatic close, with five teams still vying for the final Champions League spots, the Magpies can already reflect on a year of substantial progress. Thanks to their Carabao Cup triumph, they have secured a place in the Europa League regardless of the outcome on the final day.

With European football guaranteed, attention is now shifting towards the upcoming transfer window, where Newcastle are expected to be one of the most active clubs in the market.

For the past few windows, Eddie Howe’s side have navigated the complexities of Profit and Sustainability Regulations, which placed a limit on their spending power despite the backing of ambitious ownership.

However, this summer presents an opportunity to make bold moves, and Newcastle appear ready to do just that. With multiple areas in the squad requiring reinforcements, including right wing, central defence, goalkeeper, and potentially up front should Alexander Isak attract serious interest, it’s shaping up to be a crucial period for Howe and newly appointed sporting director Paul Mitchell.

Among the new developments, Newcastle are reportedly reviving their pursuit of Gabri Veiga, a highly-rated Spanish midfielder whose career path has taken an unexpected detour.

Veiga burst onto the scene at Celta Vigo and quickly became one of La Liga’s most promising young talents. His flair, creativity, and goal-scoring instincts made him a standout figure in Spanish football, drawing interest from several European heavyweights, including Manchester City.

Yet, in a move that shocked many, he opted to join Al-Ahli in the Saudi Pro League in 2023, turning down offers from top European clubs despite possessing a €40 million release clause at the time.

Veiga’s decision attracted widespread criticism, with Real Madrid veteran Toni Kroos among those publicly calling him out. Kroos labeled the move “embarrassing,” accusing the young midfielder of prioritizing financial gain over sporting ambition.

The backlash didn’t deter Veiga, who signed a lucrative contract running until 2026. Despite the financial benefits, whispers of a return to Europe have been growing, and now Newcastle are reportedly in contact with his agent, the influential Pini Zahavi, as they consider a bid to bring the 22-year-old back to the continental spotlight.

Reports suggest Celta Vigo are keen to re-sign their former player but may struggle to meet his current salary demands, a problem that could open the door for Newcastle to swoop in.

Atletico Madrid have also been mentioned as a possible destination, but the Magpies are said to be fully informed on the conditions required to make the deal happen. While no transfer fee has been officially mentioned, Veiga’s current market valuation sits around €23 million, a figure that may increase depending on competition and negotiations with Al-Ahli.

Although Veiga would bring flair and energy to Newcastle’s midfield, questions remain about whether he should be a priority. With more pressing needs across the squad and financial constraints still in play, investing heavily in an attacking midfielder could be seen as a luxury.

Moreover, there’s the matter of how Veiga would fit into Eddie Howe’s current tactical setup, and whether the player himself is ready to commit to a high-intensity Premier League side after a season in Saudi Arabia’s less competitive league.

Still, it’s easy to understand why Newcastle might want to revisit this target. Veiga’s ceiling remains high, and at just 22 years old, he has the potential to develop into a world-class player if guided correctly.

Newcastle’s project, with its combination of financial backing, clear footballing vision, and growing European presence, could appeal to a player looking to rebuild his sporting credibility.

For the club, it represents an opportunity to land a top talent whose value could rise significantly with the right development.

The next few weeks will be telling, as Newcastle weigh up their options and decide where their transfer budget will have the greatest impact. While Veiga’s name may generate buzz, the club’s recruitment team must stay focused on reinforcing the areas that will provide the most immediate benefit.

Still, if a financially viable path emerges, and Veiga shows genuine commitment to contributing to Newcastle’s long-term vision, this could be a transfer worth pursuing.

The summer window has not even opened yet, but already, Newcastle United are making it clear they intend to be right at the heart of the action.