Newcastle United are now very interested in signing Atletico Madrid star Alex Baena in the January transfer window.
The Matthias Jaissle era has only just begun, and it has been a mixed start for the 38-year-old, who has taken five points from his opening four Premier League matches, which leaves Newcastle in 12th place.
The heavy 4-1 defeat at Leeds United last time out may be of particular concern, but the Magpies have booked their place in the fourth round of the EFL Cup, having picked up victories against West Bromwich Albion and Millwall.
It is perhaps too early to judge Jaissle, not least because there were wholesale changes at St. James’ Park during the summer, with nine new signings arriving at St. James’ Park, including left-winger Bazoumana Toure, who’s scored one goal in his opening two league games.
However, despite Toure’s solid start, signing a new left-winger is still on the agenda, with Baena now emerging as a target, having been in fantastic form for Atletico Madrid during the early stages of the campaign, scoring four goals in his opening six La Liga matches.
Lauded as “unreal” by analyst Spencer Mossman, the 25-year-old is now very experienced in Spain, making 148 La Liga appearances, and he chipped in with a combined 27 assists for Villarreal during his three seasons with the club.
Alex Baena’s record at Villarreal | La Liga appearances | Assists |
2022-23 | 35 | 3 |
2023-24 | 34 | 14 |
2024-25 | 32 | 10 |
The Spaniard, who is represented by the same agent as William Osula, has been making waves at international level too, making seven appearances for Spain en-route to World Cup glory, during which time he picked up one goal and one assist.
Newcastle eyeing January move for Alex Baena
According to a report from Spain (via Sport Witness), Newcastle are now very keen on signing Baena during the January transfer window, with the left-winger attracting attention courtesy of his performances for both club and country.
The Magpies remain keen on strengthening their left flank, after losing Anthony Gordon during the summer, and they are seriously considering a move for the Spain international, but negotiations with Atletico Madrid could prove to be difficult.
That is because the La Liga side have no interest in letting one of their prized assets leave, especially half-way through the season, and he remains happy at the Metropolitano Stadium for the time being.
Manchester City and Aston Villa are also very interested in signing the forward, which indicates even next summer it could be difficult for Jaissle’s side to secure his signature, unless they find their form and qualify for Europe.
Source: www.footballfancast.com
