Newcastle should accelerate Alex Baena move, Spanish media give green light
Newcastle should seriously consider a move for Alex Baena as he earns huge praise in Spain for his national team performances.
Baena, 25, has attracted interest from several Premier League clubs in recent months as he impresses for Atletico Madrid.
Newcastle were named as one of the sides keeping tabs on his progress towards the end of the summer window.
Matthias Jaissle remains in the market for more attacking additions in January, with Baena picking up where he left off this season after a stellar World Cup with Spain.
The Atleti star produced yet another strong showing for his country on Tuesday as they emerged 4-1 victors over Croatia.
Baena should be higher on the Magpies' transfer shortlist than ever before as they aim to coax him to the Premier League in the coming window.
Alex Baena stuns Spanish media with latest showing vs Croatia
Baena impressed enough for Atletico last season to earn a key role in Luis de la Fuente's World Cup squad, starting regularly on their run to eventual glory in North America.
He already has four goals and one assist in seven La Liga appearances so far this season, and notched two goal contributions at Wembley as Spain beat England on Saturday.
The 25-year-old's outstanding season continued in Seville against Croatia, as he assisted Lamine Yamal within the first two minutes of their 4-1 win.
He also created one other chance, made four passes into the final third, three ball recoveries and drew one foul on another successful evening for La Roja.
Baena was praised in the aftermath of the game by Spanish outlet Zona Mixta, who said: "He is a crucial player for the national team, and Luis de la Fuente knows it. The Almería-born player was involved in almost all the dangerous moves in the first half and came close to scoring."
While GOAL Espana were also appreciative of his efforts throughout the clash, writing: "He was a creative force during his 68 minutes on the pitch. He provided a crucial assist just two minutes after kick-off, setting up Yamal for the opening goal. He posed a constant threat to Croatia."
Newcastle's path to Baena clearing after Man City charges
Sources exclusively revealed to Football Insider earlier in September that Man City had registered their interest in Baena alongside the Magpies.
That was, of course, before they were officially found guilty of breaching Premier League financial rules 114 times over nine years by an independent commission last week.
City are now in limbo regarding transfers, with targeted players unlikely to want to join in January before they know the full outcome of the investigation after their likely appeal is reviewed.
Newcastle now have the opportunity to take advantage of their pitfalls to potentially strike a deal with Baena in the new year, although Atletico are unlikely to part ways with him for anything other than a huge transfer fee.