Nick Woltemade now drops next Newcastle transfer hint as Eddie Howe eyes £86M Chelsea primary target

The emotional rollercoaster of the summer transfer window continues for Newcastle United, with the club working tirelessly behind the scenes to strengthen the squad after a challenging start to the season.

Monday night’s heartbreaking defeat to Liverpool, decided by a last-gasp winner, was difficult to accept, but it highlighted the team’s incredible spirit and determination.

Playing more than half the game with ten men and fighting back from two goals down showed character, even if the result ultimately didn’t reflect the effort.

Now, attention turns to the weekend clash with Leeds United and, just as importantly, the final days of the transfer market.

Amid all the speculation, one deal appears to be moving closer to completion. The signing of Stuttgart striker Nick Woltemade is now at an advanced stage, with reports indicating that the German forward has successfully completed his medical.

The formalities of the transfer are being finalized, with contracts being exchanged between the clubs. Interestingly, it’s been suggested that Woltemade will wear the number 27 shirt, leaving the iconic number nine jersey available.

This has sparked excitement and speculation among fans that another significant striker signing could be on the way before Monday’s deadline.

The need for additional firepower is clear. With Anthony Gordon suspended for the upcoming match and Alexander Isak’s future still uncertain, manager Eddie Howe is eager to add more options to his attacking line.

Players like Jørgen Strand Larsen and Yoane Wissa remain on the club’s radar, and the decision to keep the number nine shirt free suggests that the management has something ambitious in mind.

There is even talk of a potential late move for Chelsea’s Nicolas Jackson, who had been linked with Bayern Munich, indicating that Newcastle are prepared to explore every opportunity.

In another surprising development, the club has also been connected with a move for Barcelona’s talented young midfielder Fermín López.

According to reports from Spain, Newcastle are willing to make a substantial offer in the region of £86 million for the 22-year-old, who is highly regarded at Camp Nou.

To sweeten the deal, the club is reportedly prepared to quadruple his current salary. While such a move would represent a significant investment, it underscores the ambition of the ownership and their willingness to compete for top young talent.

Chelsea had also shown interest in López, but they appear to have moved on to other targets, potentially opening the door for Newcastle.

While new arrivals are being planned, the club has also confirmed the departure of young forward Garang Kuol, who has joined Sparta Prague on a permanent deal.

Kuol, who impressed with the under-21s last season, will be reunited with his former coach Diarmuid O’Carroll, now at the Czech club. This move is seen as a positive step for the player’s development, offering him regular first-team football in a competitive league.

As the weekend approaches, the mood around Newcastle is one of cautious optimism. The potential arrival of Woltemade, coupled with the possibility of further signings, has given fans reason to believe that the squad will be stronger after the window closes.

The match against Leeds represents an opportunity to secure that first win of the season, and with the transfer deadline looming, the next few days promise to be as eventful off the pitch as they are on it.

For everyone connected with Newcastle United, it’s a waiting game—but one filled with anticipation and hope.