Sky Sports issue £35m Newcastle transfer update as deal nears conclusion

As Newcastle United navigate a complex summer transfer window, their pursuit of Brentford forward Yoane Wissa continues progressing while speculation swirls around star striker Alexander Isak’s future.

The Magpies’ recruitment team remains actively engaged in negotiations for Wissa, viewing the Congolese international as a complementary attacking option rather than a direct replacement for their Swedish talisman.

Newcastle’s initial £25 million bid for Wissa fell short of Brentford’s valuation, but discussions have advanced with talks now centering on a £35 million package.

The 28-year-old’s situation appears increasingly resolvable, with the player training separately in London after leaving Brentford’s Portuguese preseason camp and having already declined contract extension talks.

Wissa’s desire for Champions League football aligns with Newcastle’s ambitions, and personal terms aren’t expected to pose significant obstacles should the clubs agree on a fee.

The potential acquisition comes at a pivotal moment for Eddie Howe’s squad. With Callum Wilson’s departure and 21-year-old Will Osula as the only other recognized striker, attacking reinforcements remain urgent.

Wissa’s Premier League-proven quality – evidenced by his 19-goal haul last season – would provide valuable depth and versatility across the frontline.

His arrival would theoretically allow Isak to continue leading Newcastle’s attack, though the situation surrounding the Swedish international grows increasingly uncertain.

Liverpool’s interest in Isak has added complexity to Newcastle’s planning. While no formal bid has been submitted, reports suggest the Reds would consider a British record £120 million offer for the 25-year-old, falling short of Newcastle’s £150 million valuation.

Isak’s absence from preseason fixtures, officially attributed to a minor groin issue, has inevitably fueled speculation, particularly following claims the player wishes to explore his options.

Financial considerations loom large over any potential Isak departure. The striker’s reported £300,000-per-week wage demands present challenges under Premier League profitability and sustainability rules, while his contract’s remaining three years gives Newcastle strong negotiating leverage.

Club officials maintain their public stance that Isak isn’t for sale, a position supported by his phenomenal output of 62 goals in 109 appearances since arriving from Real Sociedad.

Should Isak ultimately depart, Newcastle’s recruitment strategy would require rapid recalibration. Wissa alone wouldn’t suffice as replacement, necessitating pursuit of another elite striker.

The club’s previous interest in Hugo Ekitike (before his £79 million move to Liverpool) and inquiries about Liam Delap and João Pedro demonstrate their awareness of this eventuality. Benjamin Šeško’s name has also surfaced as a potential target in such a scenario.

Newcastle’s summer business reflects the delicate balancing act facing ambitious clubs operating within financial constraints.

The potential Wissa signing represents sensible squad building, while their firm stance on Isak underscores the importance of retaining world-class talent.

As preseason progresses, resolution on both fronts will prove crucial in shaping the Magpies’ competitiveness for the upcoming campaign across multiple competitions.

The coming weeks will reveal whether Newcastle can successfully integrate Wissa alongside Isak or face the more challenging task of replacing their goalscoring talisman.

Either way, the club’s recruitment team faces intense pressure to deliver solutions that maintain their upward trajectory while adhering to financial realities.

For now, all eyes remain on Brentford’s valuation of Wissa and any developments regarding Liverpool’s pursuit of Isak – two interconnected sagas that could define Newcastle’s summer and season ahead.