Newcastle United have been hard at work in their pursuit and have expressed an interest in a summer move for the England star as they compete to qualify for the 2026 World Cup.
Newcastle United aim to improve in January
The Magpies have had a mixed start to the Premier League season but will be hoping to turn around their shaky domestic performance, although they are proud of their efforts in the EFL Cup with the semi-finals ahead.
European football was also a source of joy for Eddie Howe. However, he will be aware that Yoan Wissa’s form as a player in England’s top flight needs to improve, although he has hinted that it may take some time for him to fully integrate into the starting XI.
Speaking ahead of the match against Burnley, the manager said: “With Yoan, I think we have to look after him. He’s still relatively early in getting back to full fitness. He did really well in his one start against Fulham. I was really happy for him that day and I’m sure he’ll get another chance.”
“The problem for us is that with our schedule of playing every three or four days, I don’t think he’s in a position to be a regular starter at the moment, but I hope we can manage him to that point at some stage.”
January will be an important time for midfield and forward reinforcements, with AZ Alkmaar midfielder Keith Smit attracting the attention of Newcastle, with a clear possibility of signing him for £22m in January.
The Toon could now be in the market for a bold swoop, but it remains to be seen whether the player in question can realistically be signed at St James’ Park.
Newcastle United keen to sign Trent Alexander and Arnold
Newcastle are keen to bring Real Madrid defender Trent Alexander-Arnold back to the Premier League, with a summer move most likely, according to reports in Spain.
But despite being prepared to pay €40m (about £35m) for the England international, Europe’s leading sides believe he will succeed in the Spanish capital after a rocky start to his career since joining from Liverpool.
Bad news for Ramsey: Newcastle inquire about ‘world-class’ prospect
Newcastle are in the middle of the park, devoid of energy and vibrancy.
Alexander-Arnold has been limited to just 11 appearances for Real Madrid due to injury, and although he provided an assist against Athletic Club earlier this month, he was ruled out again due to a muscle strain.
His failings this season have been more a matter of fitness than form. But he is definitely going through a period of adjustment and is struggling to repeat his Anfield exploits.
Manchester City and Manchester United are also keen to sign him, but both would come as a surprise given his boyhood loyalty. In 2024, he was named one of the world’s best “technicians” by former Premier League star Stephen Kelly.
Still, Real Madrid seem to be on a solid run for now, but it remains to be seen whether that will change over the summer, when they will have more time to reflect on their debut season.
