Newcastle United have emerged as surprise contenders to sign Inter Milan midfielder Aleksandar Stanković, despite the Serbian youngster only returning to the San Siro earlier this month.
Stanković, the son of Inter and Serbia legend Dejan Stanković, came through the club’s academy before joining Club Brugge in the summer of 2025. The 20-year-old enjoyed an impressive spell in Belgium, scoring nine goals and providing several assists in 55 appearances across all competitions, quickly establishing himself as one of Europe’s most promising young midfielders.

His performances convinced Inter to activate their €23 million (around £19.9 million) buy-back clause at the beginning of June. The Serie A giants handed Stanković a new five-year contract, but reports in Italy suggest they could still sanction a sale if a bid of around €40 million (£34.5 million) arrives, allowing the club to make a sizeable profit within weeks of bringing him back.
Newcastle are actively searching for midfield reinforcements this summer, with Eddie Howe eager to strengthen the heart of his squad ahead of the new campaign. Adding a specialist defensive midfielder remains a priority, and the club’s interest could intensify if Sandro Tonali’s future becomes uncertain. Tottenham Hotspur have already seen an opening bid for the Italian international rejected, while Manchester City continue to monitor his situation. Arsenal have also been linked with the midfielder.
Stanković’s composure in possession, passing range and ability to dictate the tempo of matches have made him an attractive option for several European clubs. At just 20 years old, he also fits Newcastle’s long-term recruitment strategy of investing in young players with high potential.

The Magpies continue to assess other midfield options as well. Monaco’s Lamine Camara remains under consideration, while highly rated Dutch youngster Kees Smit is another player admired by the club. Middlesbrough’s Hayden Hackney is also on Newcastle’s shortlist, although the Championship side are expected to demand around £20 million plus a further £5 million in add-ons.
Whether Newcastle move for Stanković may ultimately depend on developments surrounding Tonali, but the Serbian midfielder is certainly a name to watch as the summer transfer window gathers pace.