Newcastle United are reportedly preparing a major bid to sign a Champions League star, who finished in the top 10 for the 2025 Ballon d’Or.
Eddie Howe Posts Yoane Wissa Update
It’s been such a hectic summer at St James’ Park that it’s sometimes easy to forget that Newcastle still have Yoane Wissa waiting in the wings. The striker is yet to kick a ball for the Magpies after being injured on international duty shortly after his £55 million move from Brentford.
But that could soon change. Eddie Howe recently took the opportunity to provide an update on his summer signing, which would certainly provide his side with a much-needed attacking boost.
The Magpies won’t want to rush Wissa’s return, but the fact that he is back training with the team is certainly a positive sign. With encounters expected to arrive thick and fast throughout the holiday season, they could use every option possible.
Whether Wissa’s return changes Newcastle’s January transfer plans is another question. This will potentially allow them to stay focused on signing an additional midfield star and another winger.
Players like Manu Kone have already been linked with a move to Tyneside this week and it is becoming clear that Newcastle want to strengthen their midfield in 2026.
They could also get an instant upgrade on struggling Anthony Elanga. The winger is yet to make his mark at the club, although he became one of the most expensive signings in Newcastle’s history this summer and could now be replaced in a sensational move for Raphinha.
Newcastle prepare big offer for Raphinha
According to reports in Spain, Newcastle are currently preparing a major bid to sign Raphinha as the PIF look to step up their search. The Barcelona star finished fifth in the 2025 Ballon d’Or and could now return to the Premier League in sensational fashion.
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The former Leeds United player would transform Newcastle into a consistent Champions League side and the prospect of a partnership between him and Nick Woltemade is certainly something to get excited about. In Raphina, the Magpies would recruit “one of the best players in the world”, according to Barcelona legend Romario.
“Raphinha is one of the best players today. He is one of the best in the world. He wears very well with the Barça jersey and he also wears very well with the Brazilian jersey. Raphinha is a pride for all Brazilians, he will bring us very special things in football.”
The question is how willing Barcelona are to sell one of their main men. As usual, it’s worth noting that they could certainly benefit from the financial boost a sale would bring them and this could be their last chance to cash in on 28-year-old Raphinha.
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