Newcastle United will shift their transfer focus to securing a striker once Anthony Elanga completes his move from Nottingham Forest, according to Craig Hope of the Daily Mail.
With Callum Wilson having departed and a demanding 50–60 game season ahead, the club is intent on avoiding last season’s scenario, where Alexander Isak’s absence coincided with a winless stretch because of a glaring lack of depth.
“They need two good strikers to manage that load,” Hope wrote.
One of the club’s top targets had been Joao Pedro, who opted to join Club World Cup finalist Chelsea instead.
“Newcastle would have paid the £50m-plus for Brighton forward Joao Pedro,” Hope revealed. However, Chelsea’s interest proved decisive, and the Brazilian joined Stamford Bridge.
The Magpies are now considering other options, including Brentford’s Yoane Wissa and Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins.
“Here are two new names who I understand have been discussed in the past fortnight — Brentford’s Yoane Wissa and Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins,” Hope wrote.
Both are proven Premier League performers but present challenges, as noted by Hope, namely, their age, with Wissa 28 and Watkins already 29, thus not having strong resale value.
“Would Watkins, in a World Cup year, want to join a club where Isak is No 1?” Hope wondered.
Newcastle are banking on the lure of Champions League football and the volume of minutes to persuade potential targets, but it’s unclear who will be willing to join on a clear backup role.
That’s why another option being considered is former Everton forward Dominic Calvert-Lewin, now a free agent.
“Newcastle do like him,” Hope noted. “As of today, I understand there has not been any contact or talks. Could there be? Yes… but nothing is imminent or active.”
Internally, William Osula will remain as a developmental backup and the next man in line to replace Isak when not available.