Newcastle are reportedly close to securing a deal for Brentford forward Yoane Wissa.
The Magpies have shifted their focus to the 28-year-old striker after losing out to Manchester United in the pursuit of Benjamin Sesko.
Eddie Howe’s side is also reportedly interested in Chelsea’s Nicolas Jackson and RB Leipzig’s Lois Openda.
Newcastle set to sign Brentford’s Yoane Wissa
Sky Sports reporter Keith Downie confirmed on X (formerly Twitter) on Friday afternoon that Newcastle are “ready to finalize a deal” for Wissa.
The report states that the club from the northeast is expected to sign the DR Congo international for around £35 million.
Crucially, Wissa is keen on the move to St James’ Park this summer, which would provide Newcastle with much-needed attacking reinforcements.
Why Wissa’s transfer is good news for Liverpool and Alexander Isak
It remains uncertain if bringing in Wissa alone will convince Newcastle to let go of Liverpool-linked Alexander Isak.
While Wissa isn’t quite as high-profile a signing as Sesko might have been, his stats show that Howe is adding a quality offensive player.
Though primarily a centre-forward, Wissa can also play on either wing if needed.
In the 2024/25 season, he was the sixth-highest Premier League goal scorer:
Player Premier League Goals
Mo Salah 29 (9 penalties)
Alexander Isak 23 (4 penalties)
Erling Haaland 22 (3 penalties)
Chris Wood 20 (3 penalties)
Bryan Mbeumo 20 (5 penalties)
Yoane Wissa 19 (0 penalties)
Excluding penalty goals, Wissa scored just one fewer league goal than Salah and matched Haaland and Isak.
How does Wissa compare to Sesko?
It’s important to remember that Sesko (22) is younger and less experienced than Wissa.
However, Sesko managed just 13 Bundesliga goals last season (including two penalties), suggesting that Wissa is currently the better option.
This might change in a couple of years, but based on current form and stats, Newcastle are making a smart move.
If Wissa’s signing helps push Alexander Isak’s potential transfer to Liverpool forward, then it’s a win-win for all parties involved.