Newcastle are not done in the transfer market and could submit a £34million offer for Manchester United target Edson Alvarez, according to one journalist.
Newcastle have spent around £120m already this summer. They have brought in Sven Botman, Matt Targett (following his initial loan spell), Nick Pope and Alexander Isak.
Half of that money has been spent on Sweden striker Isak. The 22-year-old signed a long-term deal at St James’ Park on Friday after joining from Real Sociedad.
Isak becomes Newcastle’s record capture. Previously they had spent £40m on Bruno Guimaraes and Joelinton before him.
The Magpies now have an impressive squad which could see them challenge for the top 10, or even the top six.
But club chiefs could make Eddie Howe’s side even better before the transfer window closes. According to South American journalist Kery, Newcastle are planning to bid for Ajax’s Alvarez.
The defensive midfielder made 41 appearances last season as Ajax won the Eredivisie title and reached the final of the Dutch cup.
Reports claim Erik ten Hag could pursue Alvarez for Manchester United to improve his midfield.
The Red Devils recently brought in Casemiro from Real Madrid, which makes a move for Alvarez less likely.
Newcastle want Ajax’s Edson Alvarez
And Newcastle are ready to pounce on the situation. Kery claims they will bid for the Mexican on Monday.
The offer will come in at £34m (€40m). They have previously put £25m on the table for Alvarez, only for this to be pushed back by Ajax.
The reporter doesn’t reveal whether this new bid is likely to be accepted by Ajax. Alvarez’s contract runs for another three years, which puts the Dutch side in a strong negotiating position.
Newcastle have the funds to increase their bid, should the new proposal be rejected. But club officials probably won’t want to spend more than £34m on the 24-year-old.
After all, he has never played in the Premier League, or even in one of Europe’s top five leagues.
Botman and Isak, on the other hand, have experience in Ligue 1 and La Liga respectively.
Newcastle submitting the Alvarez offer on Monday will give them a few days to sort out his medical and personal terms, should Ajax accept.
He would add to the North/South American contingent on Tyneside. Howe already has Brazil stars Joelinton and Guimaraes to utilise in midfield. Further up the pitch, Paraguay international Miguel Almiron is available to Howe.
Meanwhile, a pundit thinks Newcastle could improve another position due to injury concerns regarding a current star.