Newcastle United are continuing their summer rebuild after a difficult 2025-26 campaign and several major departures.
The Magpies finished 12th in the Premier League with 49 points after struggling for consistency throughout the season.
Their summer window has brought even more change, with Sandro Tonali, Bruno Guimaraes and Anthony Gordon all leaving St James’ Park.
Newcastle have responded by signing several younger players, including Aladji Bamba and Sean Steur. However, those arrivals have not fully solved the midfield problem.
Newcastle still need more experience after losing both Tonali and Guimaraes. Joe Willock’s future also remains uncertain as he enters the final year of his contract.
The club previously tried to sign Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg from Marseille but failed to agree personal terms.
According to the Daily Mail, Newcastle United are now eyeing a move for Brighton midfielder Carlos Baleba, who previously attracted serious interest from Manchester United.
The 22-year-old appeals to Newcastle because of his Premier League experience and potential to strengthen a depleted midfield.
However, Baleba is currently recovering from an ankle injury and will miss the start of the season. That issue has created a major complication for Newcastle.
The club do not want to push ahead with a deal for an injured player at this stage. However, they plan to keep monitoring his situation.
The Seagulls previously valued Baleba at £100 million when Manchester United showed strong interest in him. Brighton’s valuation has since dropped considerably.
Newcastle therefore remain interested, but they are not ready to force the issue while Baleba continues his recovery.
Matthias Jaissle has already acknowledged that Newcastle still have gaps to fill before the new campaign begins.
For now, Baleba remains one of several names under consideration as Newcastle search for another midfielder before the transfer window closes.
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