Sky Sports: Newcastle agree personal terms to sign ‘unbelievable’ striker after Ekitike snub

Newcastle United are closing in on a potential move for Brentford striker Yoane Wissa, having already reached personal terms with the player.

Discussions are now underway between the two clubs to finalize an agreement, with the Magpies eager to secure his services before the transfer window gains further momentum.

According to journalist Sacha Tavolieri of Sky Sports, the Tyneside outfit has made Wissa their priority after facing multiple setbacks in this summer’s market.

It’s been a frustrating transfer window for Eddie Howe’s side, who have so far only added Swedish international Anthony Elanga in a £55 million deal from Nottingham Forest.

The club has lost out on several high-profile targets, including Frankfurt striker Hugo Ekitike, who turned down Newcastle in favor of a potential move to Liverpool. That snub forced the Magpies to pivot swiftly, and Wissa emerged as their main attacking target.

The 28-year-old DR Congo international enjoyed an impressive Premier League campaign last season, netting 19 goals in 35 appearances.

His sharp instincts in front of goal and dynamic playing style have drawn attention from a number of top clubs across England and Europe. Brentford, however, are reluctant to part with him, especially after already losing several key figures from their squad.

Manager Thomas Frank has departed for Tottenham, Christian Norgaard has joined Arsenal, and Bryan Mbeumo is reportedly on the verge of completing a transfer to Manchester United.

Despite Brentford’s resistance, Newcastle are optimistic they can strike a deal. Having already secured Wissa’s approval, they now aim to convince the West London club to release one of their most consistent performers.

As of now, Newcastle have yet to submit a formal bid, but negotiations are ongoing. The expectation around St. James’ Park is that the deal could gain speed rapidly given the progress already made with the player himself.

Yoane Wissa’s numbers from last season underline his impact at Brentford. He ranked second in goals scored for the club, was third in overall match rating, and topped the charts for shots per game.

His ability to get into scoring positions and convert chances makes him a perfect candidate to complement Alexander Isak in Newcastle’s front line. He also contributed with key passes and dribbles, showing versatility and a well-rounded attacking game.

Below is a breakdown of Wissa’s Premier League statistics from the 2024/25 season, along with his squad ranking at Brentford:

These numbers highlight his consistency and attacking prowess across a demanding Premier League season. For a Newcastle side that has ambitions of challenging the traditional top six and making a serious push in European competition, adding a proven Premier League goalscorer could be pivotal.

Wissa not only brings finishing ability but also experience and resilience, traits that would undoubtedly strengthen Eddie Howe’s squad depth and attacking options.

Eddie Howe has made it clear he wants to bring in a reliable partner or backup to Isak, and Wissa fits the profile in both style and output. With personal terms no longer a hurdle, attention now turns to persuading Brentford’s hierarchy.

Though the Bees may not be keen to lose another star name, the financial offer and Wissa’s desire to move to a club with European ambitions could ultimately tip the scales in Newcastle’s favor.

As the transfer window edges toward its conclusion, this developing story has all the ingredients for a late-window drama.

Should Newcastle get this deal over the line, it would mark a crucial turning point in their summer business and provide the attacking reinforcements they so urgently need.