Two weeks ago, it seemed like Yoane Wissa to Newcastle was a lock. A seemingly all-but-guaranteed deal, according to some, that would see us finally bring in our Callum Wilson replacement.
These past few days, however, have cast major doubt over whether we’ll actually be able to bring Wissa to the club, despite how adamant he is on making the move to the North East.
First, there was Brentford’s sudden £60m valuation of the 28-year-old with just one year left on his contract. Then there was Wednesday’s early news that the Bees rejected a £40m package deal from us for Wissa.
And now, things could be about to get even worse for us in our pursuit for the forward, as Spurs could potentially hijack the deal, and hand us yet another defeat to a ‘Big Six’ club in the transfer market…
According to The Mail’s Craig Hope, Spurs are still in the mix for Yoane Wissa, despite the player preferring a move to St James’ Park.
It’s emerged that Spurs are considering offering Richarlison plus cash to facilitate their pursuit of Eberechi Eze, with that part-exchange freeing up funds for the North London side to sign Wissa as the Brazilian’s replacement.
It’s stated that Brentford would also prefer to deal with former manager Thomas Frank, which could imply they’re more willing to meet their valuation of their star player.
However, it is far from simple on that front for two reasons. 1) Because Arsenal are now looking to hijack Eze’s move to Spurs and 2) Wissa wants Newcastle!
Despite Spurs’ interest and Brentford’s preference to do business with Frank’s new club, Wissa STILL has his ‘heart set’ on a move to Newcastle United.
Having dreams of playing in the Champions League, a move to Spurs would still accomplish that. But Wissa, perhaps recognising that Isak’s absence opens a door for any striker to come in and nail down the no.9 spot, remains focused on a move to Newcastle.
You would also have to imagine that Richarlison’s departure from Spurs is fundamental to any plans they may have. In a vital World Cup year, the Brazilian simply cannot afford to not play in the Champions League this season.
Sky Sports’ Keith Downie also comments that Palace are less keen on anything but a straight cash deal for Eze, despite the player’s own personal preference on the switch to North London.
So for Newcastle, while we have work to do after a £40m bid was turned down today, there’s much less needed from our end to finally secure Wissa’s signature compared to Spurs.