Newcastle United could be set for another transfer blow this summer, according to The Daily Telegraph.
What’s the latest Newcastle United transfer news?
The club have been strongly linked with a move for Axel Tuanzebe of Manchester United with manager Steve Bruce understood to be eager to strengthen his defence. Indeed, the 23-year-old played under the Newcastle boss during a loan stint with Aston Villa and his representatives were said to be have been pleased with the interest on Tyneside.
However, as ever, the finances look to be a problem.
The report claims even a loan fee is a stumbling block for Newcastle at the moment and Villa themselves are prepared to discuss a permanent move for Tuanzebe as they continue their ambitious recruitment drive.
How frustrating is this?
Hugely.
With Joe Willock said to be having second thoughts over a permanent move to St James’ Park, Newcastle risk going into both the new season and the end of the transfer window in awful shape.
Bringing in a new option in defence was said to have been a priority for the club as far back as May and, with seemingly little else happening, missing out on another top target would be a major blow with such little time left.
If it ever came down to a straight shootout between Newcastle and pretty much any other club in the Premier League at the moment, it’s hard to make a case for this incarnation of the club coming out on top.
What has been said about Newcastle and Tuanzebe?
Speaking to Football Insider last week, pundit Kevin Phillips urged the club to move for the defender.
“There’s the Steve Bruce connection as well, I think that could turn out to be a really decent signing,” he said.
“He needs to go somewhere and play regularly, that’s when you will see the best of him.
“If he goes to Newcastle you will see a player who can turn out to be a hero, an unsung hero.
“Someone who you don’t may millions for but does a really good job.”
