Report: Newcastle now moving to sign £44m striker after missing out on Liam Delap, compared to Edinson Cavani

Newcastle United’s search for a new striker has taken an unexpected turn after Chelsea swooped in to secure Liam Delap, leaving Eddie Howe to explore alternative options.

The Magpies had identified Delap as a prime target, especially with his £30 million release clause at Ipswich Town becoming active following their relegation. Reports even suggested Howe was prepared to adjust his tactical setup to accommodate the young English forward.

But with Delap now Stamford Bridge-bound, Newcastle have swiftly turned their attention to Fiorentina’s Moise Kean—a player whose recent form has drawn comparisons to Uruguayan legend Edinson Cavani.

The Italian striker is coming off the most prolific season of his career, netting 25 goals in 44 appearances for Fiorentina. His explosive performances have not gone unnoticed, with Newcastle reportedly ramping up their pursuit as they look to reinforce their attack ahead of the new campaign.

According to Calciomercato, the Magpies are moving with “greater determination” to secure Kean’s signature, though they face competition from Napoli, who have also registered interest.

Time is of the essence, however, as Kean’s £44 million (€52m) release clause is only valid until July 15th. Adding to the urgency is the recent departure of Fiorentina manager Raffaele Palladino, which could weaken the club’s chances of retaining their star forward.

With uncertainty looming over his future, Newcastle have a narrow window to act—but they aren’t the only Premier League side in the mix.

Manchester United have also been linked with Kean, with SportMediaSet claiming the Red Devils are prepared to trigger his release clause after a lackluster season from their current striking options.

Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee managed just six Premier League goals between them last term, leaving Erik ten Hag in desperate need of a proven finisher.

However, Newcastle hold a key advantage: Champions League football.While United will be absent from European competition entirely, the Magpies can offer Kean the chance to test himself against the continent’s elite—a factor that could prove decisive in negotiations.

For Eddie Howe, signing a reliable striker is non-negotiable this summer. Callum Wilson’s impending departure leaves Alexander Isak as the only established center-forward in the squad, and with European commitments on the horizon, depth will be crucial.

Kean’s physicality, work rate, and eye for goal make him an intriguing fit for Newcastle’s high-intensity style, while his versatility allows him to play across the frontline.

The comparisons to Cavani stem from Kean’s movement, aerial ability, and knack for being in the right place at the right time—qualities that could make him a fan favorite at St. James’ Park.

Yet, the question remains: will Newcastle act fast enough to fend off rival interest? With the clock ticking on his clause, hesitation could prove costly.

If the Magpies do secure Kean, it would signal a statement of intent—a player entering his prime, fresh off a career-best season, ready to lead the line in both domestic and European competition.

But if they miss out, the search for a striker will grow even more urgent, with few top-tier alternatives available at a reasonable price.

One thing is certain: after the disappointment of losing Delap to Chelsea, Newcastle cannot afford another near-miss.

The next few weeks will reveal whether they can outmaneuver the competition and land a forward capable of firing them to new heights—or if they’ll be left scrambling for Plan C.