Credit: Imago

Chris Smith

Mon 11 August 2025 18:58, UK

Newcastle United fans have been given an update on their club’s reported pursuit of West Ham United midfielder Lucas Paqueta.

The Magpies have endured a torrid summer window so far, losing out on signings such as Hugo Ekitike and James Trafford, while facing the prospect of losing key players Alexander Isak and Anthony Gordon.

However, they have been able to get some deals over the line, bringing exciting winger Anthony Elanga on board from Nottingham Forest alongside the loan of goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale from Southampton.

But with a return to the Champions League on the cards this season, Eddie Howe needs further reinforcements, and an additional midfielder is understood to be among his priorities.

Lucas Paqueta to Newcastle links addressed

Paqueta was briefly linked to Newcastle last week, with the i‘s Mark Douglas claiming the Brazilian is ‘well-liked’ on Tyneside.

However, cold water has been very quickly poured on any excitement among the St. James’ Park faithful, with Sky Sports’ Keith Downie stating there is ‘no interest’ from Newcastle in Paqueta, according to his sources.

Downie did confirm that the Magpies are indeed targeting a midfielder, however, with Aston Villa’s John McGinn also among those linked this summer.

Sean Longstaff’s departure to Leeds United means Howe has only Bruno Guimaraes, Sandro Tonali, Joelinton, Lewis Miley and Joe Willock available to him at central midfield — with the latter two linked with a move away and struggling with injury, respectively.

Paqueta, meanwhile, remains a target of Manchester City this summer.

Keeping players more important for Newcastle

Football Insider verdict

Of course, with a Champions League campaign on the horizon, Eddie Howe will be seeking out reinforcements — especially with wantaway Alexander Isak his only striker option and areas like midfield looking short of depth.

But for now, focusing on keeping hold of their key players might be Newcastle’s best strategy.

The Magpies are digging in when it comes to Isak, absolutely adamant that the Sweden international will not be allowed to leave until a viable replacement has been secured.

Meanwhile, there will be lingering anxiety regarding Liverpool’s interest in Anthony Gordon, especially in light of the fact that Manchester City have entered the race for the Reds’ top target, Rodrygo.

There remains a lot of uncertainty around the North East as we advance through August, but if Newcastle can make it through the next couple of weeks either their squad intact, or with Isak replaced by a quality No.9, this window may not be viewed as quite the disaster it has seemed.