Newcastle United are now reported to have their sights set on signing a midfield reinforcement who has been compared to the iconic N’Golo Kante.
Newcastle aim to add vital midfield reinforcements
It’s pretty much an open secret that Newcastle are eyeing another midfield star for 2026. The usual reliable trio of Sandro Tonali, Joelinton and Bruno Guimarães is showing signs of decline without the necessary depth, and PIF will need to rectify that when the January transfer window opens.
Joelinton has particularly struggled this season and currently has to battle injury issues. Eddie Howe revealed the news earlier this week, telling reporters: “Joelington is recovering from a groin injury. He is reasonably fit but we will only use him in an emergency.
“For example, defending a corner in the final minutes of a game. He’s been training, but he’s probably not completing every practice at full intensity.”
Without him, Newcastle will be forced to look to the likes of Joe Willock, Lewis Miley and Jacob Ramsey, who has struggled with summer signings. Compared to the robust nature of Joelinton’s work, none of these three represent comparable replacements or upgrades in other departments.
One man who could arrive to solve those problems is Ruben Neves. The Al Hilal midfielder has just over six months left on his contract with Saudi Arabia, but could leave sooner than that in the January transfer window. Newcastle, along with other clubs, are reportedly interested in the Portugal international.
However, Neves is not the only name left on the January shortlist. According to Craig Hope of the Daily Mail, Newcastle are currently looking to sign Lamine Camara from AS Monaco. The talented midfielder is being monitored by the Magpies ahead of next month.
Kamara would be a bargain replacement for Neves for Newcastle
Neves would have been a Newcastle player if they hadn’t been held back by the wage structure. Alas, the reality is that even if they wanted to bring the Saudi Arabian’s £15m-a-year salary back to the Premier League, they are unlikely to get a deal. So Tyneside residents may need to find an alternative, and that’s where Kamara could come into the picture.
Compared to former Premier League winner Kante, the Monaco star is still only 21 years old and has not even reached the peak of his powers. Kamara is currently representing Senegal at AFCON, so a move next month may be unlikely, but Newcastle should try to secure a move beyond the winter window.
Camara, who was described as a “complete midfielder” by Como scout Ben Mattinson this time last year, could be the answer to Newcastle’s problems in 2026.
