Newcastle United have shown a willingness to wait in the transfer market before.
Such has been the coherent manner in which Newcastle United have built their squad during the PIF era, the club haven’t often rushed into signings.
Instead, they’ve undertaken a rather measured approach in previous windows. The likes of Sven Botman and Anthony Gordon arrived months after Newcastle’s initial interest was first reported on.
All of that brings us to a certain Spanish midfielder. Newcastle want to make at least three signings this summer, and perhaps Gabri Veiga could be one.
Photo by Yasser Bakhsh/Getty Images
Photo by Yasser Bakhsh/Getty Images
Newcastle United relaunch interest in Gabri Veiga
According to Foot Mercato, the 22-year-old could leave Saudi Arabian club Al-Ahli this summer.
Newcastle were close to signing Veiga from Celta Vigo in 2023 but he ultimately made the move to the Saudi Pro League club instead.
Former Real Madrid midfielder Toni Kroos was critical of that decision. As reported by The Independent at the time, Kroos labelled Veiga’s move to the Middle East at that early stage of his career ‘embarrassing’ on Instagram.
Foot Mercato suggest Newcastle have contacted the attacking midfielder’s agents. Atletico Madrid are also said to be in the race, while Celta Vigo are dreaming of a potential return.
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How Gabri Veiga’s salary compares to Newcastle United highest-paid players
The report adds that Veiga’s salary could prove a problem for interested clubs, particularly Celta.
According to Capology, the Spain U21 international is paid around £194k-per-week.
That salary would instantly make him the biggest earner at Newcastle. Bruno Guimaraes is Newcastle’s highest-paid player on around £160k-per-week, while there are a clutch of players not too far behind.
Player Reported Salary
Bruno Guimaraes £160k-per-week
Joelinton £150k-per-week
Anthony Gordon £150k-per-week
Sandro Tonali £120k-per-week
Kieran Trippier £120k-per-week
Alexander Isak £120k-per-week
Newcastle United’s highest-paid players, data via Capology
With that in mind, it’s difficult to see Veiga actually joining this summer unless he takes a significant wage cut, or the Saudi side contribute towards his salary in a potential loan deal.
Frankly, it’s hard to see how any club outside of the Saudi Pro League could afford that type of salary for a player of his stature.