Newcastle United are said to be particularly interested in the promising Spaniard ahead of the transfer deadline.
Howe cancels transfer update ahead of January deadline
In the summer, Newcastle acquired both Nick Woltemaid and Yoan Wissa to strengthen their attacking force in the absence of Alexander Isak.
The pair have each shown flashes of brilliance, but it’s clear the Magpies have little depth beyond the duo. William Osula’s minutes have been minimal this season, with Newcastle continually linked with new attackers.
Pole position: Newcastle lead the race for this month’s ‘absolute stars’
he had a good season in the championship
However, it has been a quiet winter for Newcastle so far, no doubt due to their heavy summer spending. Manager Eddie Howe has repeatedly criticized profit and sustainability rules that hinder the team’s ability to spend in the market.
Howe, who has previously downplayed the possibility of new signings, remains determined to think ahead to the February 2 deadline, confirming that the club will not be able to operate at full capacity this month ahead of the Liverpool trip.
”I don’t expect that to change, but there’s still time for that to happen over time.. ”
Despite the 48-year-old not being optimistic, his team is currently linked with being behind on signing highly talented prospects.
Newcastle keep tabs on Barcelona prospects
According to Sport Witness, Newcastle continue to search Europe for young talent with a lot of potential. Now Barcelona midfielder Gil Fernandes appears to be the latest target with Newcastle holding a “significant” interest in the teenager.
Just 17 years old, Fernandes, who shares the same agent as Lamine Yamal, joined La Masia’s prestigious academy in 2018 and has steadily improved since then. In 2024, scout Jacek Kulig described the midfielder as a “great” player.
The midfielder was part of Barcelona’s pre-season tour, but suffered an ankle injury early in Barcelona B’s campaign. As a result of this, Fernandes has started just six games in all competitions so far this season.
Fernandes is clearly a technically gifted player and that was proven in pre-season. Newcastle’s interest in the midfielder is understandable, as he is a highly regarded prospect in Catalonia, but they are not the only club keeping an eye on Fernandes. German giants Borussia Dortmund are also reportedly interested in the teenager.
Despite Newcastle’s interest, it may prove nearly impossible to complete a deal before the window slams shut. According to reports, Barcelona have told Fernandes that he has no intention of leaving the club this winter, a sign that Barcelona rate the midfielder highly.
Fernandes would certainly be an exciting addition for the Magpies, but it looks like the Tyneside club will need to look elsewhere if they want to add depth to their midfield.
