Newcastle United are currently in pursuit of Brentford forward Yoane Wissa as Eddie Howe looks to strengthen his ranks.
Newcastle have had a nightmare transfer window to date, failing to sign eight top targets.
Benjamin Sesko, Dean Huijsen, Liam Delap, Joao Pedro, Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo, James Trafford and Hugo Ekitike have all picked other clubs over a move to St James’ Park.
In addition, Newcastle also have the unenviable task of trying to replace Alexander Isak, who is keen on joining Liverpool this summer and is no longer training with the Magpies.
However, Yoane Wissa remains in the picture, and Brentford have now done something which will give Newcastle encouragement over potentially signing him.
Yoane Wissa looking on during a pre-season game between Brentford and Watford
Photo by David Rogers/Getty Images
Yoane Wissa absent from Brentford squad to face Gladbach
On Friday, Brentford took on Borussia Monchengladbach in a friendly at the GTech Stadium, and Wissa was not in the matchday squad.
Although Wissa took part in Brentford training this week, new manager Keith Andrews omitted the 29-year-old from the squad.
Wissa’s absence suggests that, while his future remains uncertain, the team will continue planning for their Premier League campaign without him, while the player can focus on securing a move.
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Why Newcastle are ahead of Tottenham in Yoane Wissa pursuit
Newcastle want to replace Callum Wilson, who left on a free transfer and joined West Ham, and Wissa is viewed as the ideal replacement.
Wissa has looked to push through a move to Newcastle, and St James’ Park now looks his most likely destination this summer ahead of Tottenham.
TBR Football chief correspondent Graeme Bailey recently confirmed that, while Tottenham had expressed an interest, “it looks like Wissa’s nailed on for Newcastle now“.
Bailey claimed that Frank understands the reality of the situation, and the likelihood of Tottenham paying £50million for a 29-year-old with one year left on his contract, is not high.
Newcastle have also stepped up their striker search, with Randal Kolo Muani and Samu Aghehowa among ‘so many options’ to replace Isak.