Newcastle United ‘lead race’ for £50m Everton star liked by Arsenal, Man Utd and Bayern Munich

Although funds are limited at St James’ Park, Newcastle United is anticipated to strengthen this summer.

Newcastle United is among three teams reportedly interested in signing Amadou Onana this summer, as Everton may be forced to sell.

During his time at Goodison Park, Onana has emerged as a key player for boss Sean Dyche, attracting interest from prominent European clubs. Despite two eight-point deductions, the Belgian international has made 27 Premier League games and contributed significantly to the Toffees’ survival.

However, that record has naturally grabbed the attention of clubs higher up the league, and Newcastle is one of several teams associated with recent interest. According to Football Transfers, they are among the top three clubs seeking the 22-year-old player.

Arsenal is regarded to be the most significant local rival for Newcastle, but Bundesliga heavyweights Bayern Munich are also preparing for a summer move. All three teams prioritise midfield reinforcements for next season and have the financial resources to complete a transaction.

Everton may be urged to cash in on at least one of their big-money players, as financial concerns have grown this week following news that the club has hired insolvency advisers. A protracted takeover offer by 777 Partners has disappointed supporters, but more than £200 million in loans have been taken out from the American investment firm, and significant funds may need to be raised shortly.

Everton’s Onana, along with Jarrad Branthwaite and keeper Jordan Pickford, are potential targets for Newcastle United. The Belgian midfielder arrived from Lille for roughly £33 million and is anticipated to make a significant profit if he leaves, with latest estimates estimating a fee of at least £50 million.

Everton has Onana under contract until 2027, thus any push to sell would be driven solely by the aforementioned financial pressures. The midfielder has yet to express any desire to leave this summer.

Newcastle are in severe need of midfield reinforcements, with Sandro Tonali still out. The Italian received a 10-month ban in October for violating the Italian FA’s betting rules, and the English FA has since charged him with over 50 alleged violations during his tenure at St James’ Park, though his ban is not anticipated to be extended.

Reports claim that Sean Longstaff, an academy graduate, could be sold to comply with profitability and sustainability criteria (PSR), as he represents pure profit. The 26-year-old has been a regular presence this season and is well-liked by Eddie Howe. He may bring in up to £20 million, which could be used as part of a larger buy split over the duration of a deal.

Newcastle’s decision to proceed with a deal may be determined by their priorities, as funding at St. James’ Park are limited and other places require improvement. Sven Botman and Jamaal Lascelles are out for the long term, while Fabian Schar and Dan Burn are both over 30 years old.