£60m Newcastle target now open to Tyneside as PIF hold talks over transfer.
Wissa injury puts dampener on Newcastle’s new arrivals
Excitement has engulfed the North East air as supporters await Yoane Wissa’s debut following his £55 million move from Brentford on Deadline Day. Nevertheless, the DR Congo international may need to wait a little while before being able to pull on the famous black and white for the first time after Eddie Howe confirmed he picked up a knee injury before his side took on Wolverhampton Wanderers.
He explained: “Unfortunately not, no, so he won’t make this game (vs Wolves). I saw him for the first time yesterday. He’s feeling the effects of the injury he sustained just before he came off, so we’re going to have to see how he is.”
Later, he added on a potential timescale for his return: “I don’t know currently as I sit here. I think he’ll go away for tests and maybe see a specialist to see.”
Jacob Ramsey also missed out due to an ankle issue, leaving Howe short on options as his side look to climb the Premier League table. Nevertheless, Newcastle retain a strong squad with proven top-flight quality, and Nick Woltemade got off to the perfect start with a fine headed goal to open the scoring against Wolves.
Tino Livramento could be in line for a new contract to ward off Manchester City’s advances, albeit the Magpies have needed to deal with change this summer, signifying that incomings in January may be likely.
Adhering to their preference of bringing in Premier League talent, Newcastle are now looking to tempt a renowned star to the North East who has previously been on their radar.
Newcastle United target Jan Paul van Hecke open to Magpies switch
According to Football Insider, Newcastle target Jan Paul van Hecke is open to joining the Magpies due to the prospect of being able to play Champions League football in the North East.
Valued at £60 million, PIF held internal talks about signing the Netherlands international during the summer window and Dan Burn was even drafted in to try and convince him that a move to St James’ Park would be best for his career.
Deemed as an alternative signing to Crystal Palace central defender Marc Guehi, the 25-year-old has made just shy of 100 appearances for the Seagulls, registering one goal and three assists.
Establishing himself as a reliable presence within Fabian Hurzeler’s backline, Van Hecke has already been a consistent figure for the Seagulls on Premier League duty in 2025/26.
Ultimately, plenty can change between now and the January window, though Newcastle already seem to be building a shortlist of exciting targets.