Newcastle United midfielder Joelinton is attracting transfer interest from Saudi Arabia.
It has been reported that Newcastle could sign a midfielder this summer, but that would be dependent on someone else leaving. There have been suggestions that Sean Longstaff will depart, while Joe Willock is linked with a move away too.
However, TBR Football’s chief correspondent Graeme Bailey has now told Geordie Boot Boys that Joelinton could potentially be on his way out of St James’ Park.
Who could replace Joelinton at Newcastle United as PIF eye shock transfer
The 28-year-old is the subject of interest from Saudi Arabia, with Al-Hilal targeting the Brazil international. Interestingly, they are also owned by PIF, so a move there for the £40million man would certainly raise eyebrows among Newcastle United’s Premier League rivals.
Joelinton holds the Carabao Cup trophy after Newcastle United's win over Liverpool at Wembley.
Photo by GLYN KIRK/AFP via Getty Images
If Newcastle were to sell Joelinton and replace him, Bailey has told Geordie Boot Boys that Atalanta midfielder Ederson is a player that Toon officials are considering.
“There is Saudi interest in Joelinton,” he said.
“The chance for Newcastle to cash in and get big money for him makes an awful lot of sense, especially if they are looking for alternatives.
“I am told Ederson at Atalanta, not a similar player but one they would want to come into the three, is an option.
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“If you can make a profit on Joelinton and bring in Ederson, you’re improving your midfield three and getting rid of any financial problems. It would make sense.”
Newcastle United are long-term admirers of Ederson
Ederson is not a new target for Newcastle United. The 25-year-old was on the Magpies’ radar during the 2024 January transfer window when Eddie Howe had severe midfield problems. Sandro Tonali was suspended, while Joe Willock, Joelinton and Elliot Anderson were injured.
Kalvin Phillips was a target, while Ederson was a more exciting alternative.
It was claimed that Ederson was open to joining Newcastle, but a deal did not materialise. The Magpies’ PSR problems meant there were no new signings that month, much to the frustration of supporters.
Following Newcastle’s interest, Ederson has continued to thrive in Italy. He helped Atalanta win the 2024 Europa League, with former England international Owen Hargreaves calling Ederson ‘amazing’ after his performance in the final against Bayer Leverkusen.