Report: ‘Growing noise’ that Newcastle United could suffer £30m transfer blow after Paul Mitchell exit

The departure of Paul Mitchell as Newcastle United’s sporting director has cast uncertainty over the club’s transfer plans, with the search for his replacement still in its early stages.

Despite the upheaval, the Magpies remain committed to their summer recruitment strategy, with several targets already identified.

However, their pursuit of one key player may be slipping away as Chelsea gain momentum in the race for Liam Delap.

Newcastle had expressed strong interest in the Ipswich Town striker, viewing him as a valuable addition to Eddie Howe’s squad. The 22-year-old, available for a reported £30 million, has held discussions with multiple clubs, including the Magpies.

Yet, recent reports suggest Chelsea have now surged ahead in the battle for his signature. According to The Guardian, there is growing speculation that the Blues are leading the chase, capitalizing on Manchester United’s diminished prospects following their failure to secure Champions League qualification.

United had initially been considered favorites to land Delap, but their defeat in the Europa League final dealt a significant blow to their transfer ambitions.

This shift in dynamics has opened the door for Chelsea to swoop in, leaving Newcastle at risk of missing out on a player who represented both a smart investment and a long-term solution up front.

While the potential loss of Delap is undoubtedly a setback, Newcastle’s recruitment team has already lined up alternative options.

Among them is Brighton’s Joao Pedro, a player with proven Premier League experience who could offer an immediate impact. The 23-year-old Brazilian has been on the Magpies’ radar for some time, nearly joining the club in 2022 before a move collapsed at the last minute.

Back then, Newcastle opted for Alexander Isak instead, but the opportunity to finally secure Pedro’s services remains alive.

Pedro would command a higher fee than Delap, but his familiarity with English football makes him an attractive alternative. His versatility across the forward line adds further appeal, providing Howe with additional tactical flexibility.

A deal would also allow Pedro to reignite a transfer that once seemed destined to happen, offering him the chance to fulfill the potential that first caught Newcastle’s attention.

Despite the uncertainty surrounding Delap’s future, Newcastle’s broader transfer strategy remains intact. The club is determined to strengthen its squad ahead of the new season, with reinforcements needed in multiple areas.

While missing out on a top target is never ideal, the Magpies have demonstrated in the past their ability to adapt and secure quality alternatives.

The coming weeks will be crucial as Newcastle finalize their shortlist and push forward with negotiations. Whether they succeed in landing Delap, Pedro, or another forward entirely, the focus will be on ensuring the squad is well-equipped to compete at the highest level.

For now, all eyes remain on Chelsea’s pursuit of Delap—a move that could force Newcastle to shift their attention elsewhere in the search for attacking firepower.

As the summer window progresses, the Magpies’ ability to navigate these challenges will be key to their ambitions.

With or without Delap, the club’s recruitment team faces a pivotal period in shaping the squad for the season ahead. The stakes are high, but so too is the determination to build a side capable of delivering success.