Despite a controversial red card for Fabian Schar, Newcastle United managed to start the 2024/25 Premier League campaign with a win over newly promoted Southampton.
Eddie Howe’s side secured a 1-0 victory after Joelinton’s first-half strike, keeping a vital clean sheet despite numerous golden opportunities for the visitors.
It’s a great start for the Magpies in a campaign where they’ll be hoping to secure a return to Champions League football, after missing out on all forms of European football at the back end of last season.
However, Howe’s side may still need a couple of new additions before the deadline on August 30th to point them in the right direction, offering the Magpies greater strength in depth.
One player has been constantly touted with a move to St James’ Park this summer, with the club potentially getting their man in the coming weeks.
Newcastle monitoring deal for £30m talent
All summer long, Newcastle have been on the hunt for a new attacking talent to help provide added quality in the final third.
Many names have been mentioned regarding a move to Tyneside, but a move for Chelsea man Noni Madueke could be set to develop after the latest development.
According to Football Insider, Chelsea are prepared to accept a £30m bid for the 22-year-old as they look to offload numerous first-team players after their heavy summer spending, with the youngster the Magpies’ top target in that area.
Whilst he may only have been an impact player for the Blues during the 2023/24 campaign, he could be an excellent addition for Howe’s side, potentially allowing them to sign their own version of a star who has set the Premier League alight
Why Madueke could be Newcastle’s own Bukayo Saka
Arsenal winger Bukayo Saka has developed into one of the very best wide players in world football, excelling under the guidance of Mikel Arteta.
In the Premier League last season, the 21-year-old was a part of the Gunners side that came within touching distance of winning the league title, registering 16 goals and nine assists in his 35 appearances.
Arsenal-Bukayo-Saka
He’s become renowned for his mazy dribbles before cutting inside onto his favoured left foot, often picking out the top corner, an example of the quality he possesses.
As for current Chelsea man Madueke, FBref compares him as a similar player to Saka, often looking to replicate the Arsenal man’s trademark move.
However, when delving into their respective stats from the previous campaign, it makes the comparison understandable, with Newcastle potentially grabbing themselves a bargain should they agree a deal for Madueke.