Abdulhafiz TeslimNewcastle United could reportedly make a surprise move for a powerful Premier League midfielder as Matthias Jaissle continues to assess his options in the middle of the pitch.
The Magpies are believed to be monitoring the situation surrounding a physically dominant Belgium international who has already established himself as one of the league’s most imposing midfielders. His profile is particularly interesting because Newcastle are looking for players capable of adding strength, athleticism and defensive security to their squad.
The player at the centre of the speculation is Amadou Onana, although it is important to clarify that he is no longer an Everton player. Onana left Everton in July 2024 and joined Aston Villa in a reported £50 million deal, signing a five-year contract.
That makes any potential Newcastle approach considerably more complicated than it would have been during his time at Goodison Park.
Newcastle Interest Revisited
Newcastle’s interest in Onana is not entirely new. The club’s recruitment department had previously been credited with viewing the midfielder as a potential long-term solution in midfield, with reports highlighting his physical attributes and ability to operate in a defensive role.
The latest speculation has therefore reignited an old transfer story at a time when Newcastle are reshaping their midfield options.
Onana’s physical profile would certainly fit the demands of English football. Standing at around 1.95 metres, he combines size with mobility and has the ability to cover significant ground. His defensive positioning, strength in challenges and ability to win possession can make him particularly valuable in matches where Newcastle need to compete physically in midfield.
The midfielder also has Premier League experience, which would reduce the adaptation period normally associated with signing a player from abroad.
Why Onana Could Interest Jaissle
For Newcastle boss Matthias Jaissle, the attraction could be obvious.
The Magpies have been involved in significant midfield changes, and adding another powerful option could give the manager greater tactical flexibility. Onana can operate as a defensive midfielder while also contributing further forward when required.
His ability to protect the defence could allow Newcastle’s more creative players to take greater risks in possession.
The Belgian has also previously demonstrated that he can contribute goals, including during his time at Aston Villa. The Premier League itself has described his role as being more than simply that of an enforcer, highlighting how his qualities can be used within a more progressive tactical system.
Arsenal Connection Adds More Intrigue
Newcastle would not necessarily have an easy path if Onana were made available.
The midfielder has previously attracted interest from Arsenal, with reports in 2024 stating that the Gunners had made contact with Everton over a potential deal. At that time, Everton were understood to value him at around £50 million.
However, his situation has changed significantly since then.
Aston Villa now control his contract, and current reporting lists his deal as running until June 2029. Transfermarkt currently places his market value at around €45 million.
Villa have also reportedly indicated that they would demand a substantial fee if they were to consider selling him, with one recent report putting their valuation at approximately €65 million.
That could make a Newcastle approach extremely expensive.
Could Newcastle Actually Pull It Off?
At this stage, the story should be treated as transfer speculation rather than confirmation of negotiations or an imminent deal.
Nevertheless, the idea makes sense from a footballing perspective.
Newcastle would be adding a player who already understands the Premier League, has Champions League experience and possesses the physical characteristics needed for high-intensity matches.
For Villa, however, there would be little reason to make a key midfielder available cheaply, particularly with Onana contracted until 2029.
The situation could therefore become one to watch if Newcastle decide to test Villa’s resolve with a serious proposal.
For now, the possibility of Onana returning to Newcastle’s radar is certainly an intriguing one — and if the Magpies were to make a formal move, it could quickly become one of the more unexpected midfield stories of the transfer window.
Abdulhafiz Teslim
admin
