Newcastle United have undergone a major rebuild this summer following a disappointing 2025-26 campaign under Eddie Howe.
The Magpies finished 12th in the Premier League and missed out on European qualification after an inconsistent domestic season.
Their campaign also ended with a fifth-round FA Cup exit and a Champions League defeat against Barcelona.
Eddie Howe departed after the season, with Matthias Jaissle arriving to oversee a major reset at St. James’ Park.
However, Newcastle have also lost several established stars during a dramatic summer transfer window.
Bruno Guimaraes joined Arsenal for £75 million, while Sandro Tonali completed a move to Tottenham Hotspur.
Anthony Gordon also joined Barcelona, while veteran defender Kieran Trippier left Newcastle for Wolves.
The club responded by targeting younger players, including Aladji Bamba, Bazoumana Toure and Sean Steur.
Amar Dedic and Lukas Hornicek also arrived as Newcastle strengthened other areas of Jaissle’s developing squad.
However, the Magpies still need additional midfield quality after losing Guimaraes during their extensive summer overhaul.
According to CaughtOffside, Newcastle United have opened exploratory talks with Manchester City over Nico Gonzalez, while Real Madrid are also interested.
The 24-year-old joined Manchester City from Porto in February 2025 for a fee of €60 million.
Gonzalez remains under contract until 2029 and currently carries a market valuation of around €40 million.
Newcastle reportedly view him as a possible midfield addition as Jaissle prepares for the new Premier League campaign.
However, Real Madrid have also placed Gonzalez on their shortlist after failing to complete a move for Rodri.
The Spanish giants are also considering Adam Wharton as they assess their midfield options during the current window.
Manchester City gave Gonzalez only 11 minutes during the Community Shield against Arsenal, highlighting his limited role.
Newcastle have not submitted a formal offer, although discussions could begin around his €40 million valuation.
The coming weeks could therefore determine whether Newcastle can secure Gonzalez or lose out to Real Madrid.
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