Newcastle United endured a disappointing 2025-26 campaign after finishing 12th in the Premier League.
The Magpies also struggled defensively throughout the season before Eddie Howe stepped down following disagreements over the club’s transfer strategy.
The summer has brought major changes at St James’ Park. Newcastle have already sold Anthony Gordon and Sandro Tonali while investing heavily in younger players.
Bazoumana Toure, Aladji Bamba, Sean Steur, Ewen Jaouen and Lukas Hornicek have all arrived as part of the club’s long-term rebuild.
The Magpies are also preparing for the new season after mixed preseason results. They defeated Darlington behind closed doors before drawing with Gateshead and losing to Bristol City.
Further friendlies against Valencia, Everton and Bayer Leverkusen are scheduled before the Premier League campaign begins. Meanwhile, Newcastle are preparing for another major change in midfield.
According to L’Equipe, Newcastle United have identified Felix Nmecha as their preferred replacement for Bruno Guimaraes.
The report states that Arsenal’s proposed move for Guimaraes has accelerated Newcastle’s search for a successor.
L’Equipe previously reported that the Gunners were closing in on an agreement worth €90 million excluding bonuses.
Newcastle have tracked Nmecha for several weeks and now consider the Borussia Dortmund midfielder their leading target.
The Germany international remains under contract until 2030, but Newcastle have already received Dortmund’s financial demands.
The report adds that Newcastle have already strengthened their midfield by signing Aladji Bamba from Monaco for €41.5 million, including €6 million in bonuses.
However, the club still want another midfielder if Guimaraes completes his move to Arsenal.
L’Equipe also reports that Manchester United and Manchester City continue monitoring Nmecha’s situation.
But Newcastle have already accelerated their pursuit as they prepare for Guimaraes’ expected departure.
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