Barcelona's potential £77m deal could leave door open for Newcastle to land ‘world-class’ forward - opinion
Barcelona's interest in Rafael Leao has left the door open for Newcastle United to land a "world-class" forward this summer.
Newcastle United have just been handed a golden opportunity to strike a marquee deal that would suit them perfectly.
Given the immense wealth of their owners, it has been a somewhat underwhelming transfer window for Newcastle United.
Deals for William Osula, Odysseas Vlachodimos and Lloyd Kelly are not exactly the type of arrivals that will have Newcastle fans on the edge of their seats.
But there are still just under two weeks for Eddie Howe to add to his squad and Newcastle have made a move for Marc Guehi as they look to strengthen their defence.
The Crystal Palace star would not come cheap, but he would arrive as a significant upgrade on the defensive options currently available to Howe.
Fresh reports from Spain suggest Newcastle could now pursue another marquee deal for a Premier League-proven forward.
Door opens for Newcastle to pursue Barcelona star
According to Spanish outlet Mundo Deportivo, Barcelona will try to sign AC Milan star Rafael Leao at a price of 90million euros (£77million).
The La Liga giants have been in the market for a new winger and initially set their sights on Euro 2024 star Nico Williams. But Barcelona have now turned their attention towards Leao and it would push one Newcastle target further down the pecking order at Camp Nou.
Newcastle United have shown interest in Ferran Torres, and the former Manchester City winger could be sold by Barcelona if they finalise a deal for Leao.
There have been reports that Newcastle bid £25million for Torres earlier this summer as the Tyneside club look to find a suitable replacement for Miguel Almiron.
Ferran Torres made 43 appearances for Manchester City and scored 16 times before leaving for Barcelona in 2022. He was branded “world-class” by former Barca manager Xavi after making a good first impression at the Catalan club.
Newcastle should go all-in for Ferran Torres
If Newcastle get a deal over the line for Guehi – or any other centre-back – then a new right-winger would become their next top transfer priority.
READ MORE: Newcastle set to send £15m player out on loan with Nottingham Forest keen
Anthony Gordon and Alexander Isak are two top-class players but to complete their star-studded front three then a new right-winger is the final piece to the puzzle.
If their finances are still healthy and flexible after signing a defender then Newcastle should go all-in for Premier League-proven Torres.
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