Exclusive – Better than Vlahović and Alexander Isak: Newcastle in talks for “one of the best CFs in the world” to solve their attacking woes

After the highs of securing Champions League football in 2024/25, it’s safe to say Newcastle United were brought back down to earth with a bump this season.

Eddie Howe’s side could only register a 12th place finish in the Premier League, subsequently finishing the campaign 11 points of the division’s top-five spots.

It was always going to be a season of struggle for the Magpies after losing talisman Alexander Isak – as the Swede netted 23 league goals during the year prior.

Losing a player of that calibre, and replacing him with Nick Woltemade and Yoane Wissa, was a recipe for disaster – as seen by the measly standing come the end of May.

The aforementioned duo only scored nine goals combined throughout 2025/26, which has once again seen the club’s hierarchy ramp up a move for added attacking reinforcements.

Newcastle enter talks to sign world-class talisman this summer
In an attempt to land a new centre-forward this summer, the Newcastle hierarchy have already done their due diligence on a number of top-level attacking talents.

Departing Juventus striker Dusan Vlahovic has emerged as one potential option for the Magpies, but concerns have been raised over his staggering wage demands.

Chelsea are another side said to be interested in signing the Serbian international, who is set to be available as a free agent upon the expiration of his deal on June 30th.

However, Vlahovic isn’t the only player in Howe’s sights ahead of the summer window, with Al Hilal striker Darwin Núñez another option being considered.

According to TEAMtalk, Newcastle have already been in talks with his representatives and asked to be informed about the future of the Uruguayan international in the months ahead.

The report states that the 26-year-old is set to depart the Saudi Arabian side on a free transfer, after a mutual agreement was reached to terminate his contract.

Former side Liverpool are also keen on securing his signature, with at least five other Premier League clubs said to be monitoring the attacker’s current situation.

Vlahovic’s lack of Premier League experience could also be a concern to the hierarchy, which could see other targets being explored as the transfer window develops.

As a result, a move for Nunez could well be a viable option, but the Magpies would have to fend off some serious interest to secure the Uruguayan’s signature.

The former Liverpool star netted 25 league goals during his 95 appearances in England’s top-flight – subsequently finding the back of the net in every 3.8 outings.

He previously cost the Reds a staggering £80m back in the summer of 2022, but his availability on a free this summer could make him an even more attractive proposition.

Nunez has frequently demonstrated he’s a better striker than the departing Juve star, as seen by his remarkable stats during his final season in the Premier League.

The Uruguayan achieved a better minute per goal record during the 2024/25 season, leading to Luis Suárez labelling him as “one of the best strikers in the world.”