Newcastle United transfer deal ‘approved’ as Jorge Mendes meeting held

Newcastle United continued their surge towards Champions League qualification with an impressive victory over Tottenham Hotspur, marking their sixth consecutive Premier League win.

Eddie Howe’s team has demonstrated remarkable form and now shifts its focus to the Carabao Cup, aiming to carry their momentum into a challenging semi-final clash. A trip to the Emirates Stadium to face Arsenal awaits, with Newcastle determined to upset the odds and secure a place in their second Carabao Cup final in three years.

While Arsenal enters the tie as favorites, Newcastle’s resilience and growing confidence suggest they are more than capable of springing a surprise in North London.

The match could also mark a turning point for several players, particularly Martin Dubravka, who might make his final appearance in a Newcastle shirt amid speculation surrounding his future. The Slovakian goalkeeper has been linked with a move to Saudi Arabia, and developments on that front are gathering pace.

Reigning Premier League champions Manchester City have reportedly held discussions with super-agent Jorge Mendes about a potential deal for Lens defender Abdukodir Khusanov.

According to reports, Newcastle and Real Madrid are also in the mix for the highly sought-after Uzbekistan international. However, it is Pep Guardiola’s side that appears to have taken the lead in negotiations.

Although Mendes’ Gestifute agency does not officially represent Khusanov, the prominent agent is seemingly facilitating the transfer process. Lens has set a £20 million price tag on the 20-year-old defender, whose combination of physicality and speed makes him an attractive prospect for elite clubs.

For Newcastle, Khusanov could be a strategic acquisition as they continue to look for long-term defensive reinforcements. The club’s summer pursuit of Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi fell through, leaving them in need of a right-sided center-back to bolster their ranks.

Khusanov, with his impressive attributes and potential, might be seen as an eventual successor to Fabian Schar. While it remains uncertain whether Newcastle will make a move this January or wait until the summer, their interest in the Lens star signals their intent to build for the future.

Meanwhile, reports from Saudi Arabia suggest that Al-Shabab has reached an agreement with Newcastle to sign 35-year-old goalkeeper Martin Dubravka. The veteran shot-stopper has been filling in admirably for the injured Nick Pope, but his contract is set to expire this summer.

Newcastle appears poised to cash in on Dubravka while they still can. According to Saudi publication Al-Sharq Al-Awsat, the league’s Financial Sustainability Committee has approved the transfer, though an official announcement is expected to follow Newcastle’s first-leg clash against Arsenal in the Carabao Cup.

Eddie Howe has acknowledged that “business logic” might dictate Dubravka’s departure this month. With Pope sidelined, Newcastle has relied on Dubravka, but his potential exit will leave the club with a decision to make regarding their goalkeeping options. The Magpies currently have five senior goalkeepers on their roster, but Dubravka’s experience and recent performances have made him a valuable asset.

In the attacking department, Newcastle has been linked to Lille striker Jonathan David, a player who has long been on their radar. According to Sky Sports, four Premier League clubs have made inquiries about the Canadian international, adding to the competition for his signature.

David’s contract with Lille expires in the summer, allowing him to negotiate with other clubs. While the 24-year-old is expected to remain in France for the remainder of the season, his availability has piqued the interest of clubs across Europe, including two Serie A sides that have reportedly submitted offers.

For Newcastle, bolstering their attacking options has become a priority, especially with Callum Wilson sidelined by injury and unlikely to receive a new contract when his current deal ends this summer. The Magpies’ need for reinforcements was evident during their recent match against Spurs, where Joe Willock was deployed as a makeshift center forward following Alexander Isak’s substitution. David’s proven goal-scoring record and versatility make him an ideal candidate to strengthen Newcastle’s front line ahead of the next campaign.

As Newcastle prepares for the crucial Carabao Cup semi-final against Arsenal, their activity in the transfer market reflects a club balancing immediate ambitions with long-term planning. Eddie Howe has built a cohesive and competitive squad, but continued investment will be necessary to maintain their upward trajectory.

Whether pursuing young talents like Khusanov, managing exits like Dubravka’s, or exploring marquee signings such as David, Newcastle’s approach remains focused on building a sustainable and competitive team capable of challenging at the highest level.

The coming weeks will provide clarity on several fronts, from the outcome of their cup ambitions to the resolution of transfer sagas. For now, the Magpies can take confidence from their recent form and the belief that they are on the cusp of something special. Newcastle fans will watch eagerly as their team aims to make history while strengthening their foundations for a bright future.