Newcastle United transfer hopes hinge on Real Madrid presidential election as ’very lucrative’ bid submitted

Eddie Howe and his transfer chiefs will be keeping a close watch over Real Madrid’s presidential election later this month.

Newcastle United have already begun scouring the market for new and exciting signings, with some reports suggesting that bids are already being made.

Of course, the Magpies will likely have cash to splash following Anthony Gordon’s big-money move to Barcelona, with the left-wing spot now a priority.

Harvey Barnes is more than capable of playing on the left flank, but it makes far more sense for Newcastle’s transfer chiefs to target a direct replacement for Gordon.

Victor Munoz of Osasuna emerges on Newcastle United's radar

According to journalist Jose Alvarez, speaking on El Chiringuito TV (3 June), Newcastle have submitted a £30.3million bid for Osasuna’s Victor Munoz.

The offer included bonuses that took the total package closer to the Spaniard’s £34.6million release clause, and it is seen as “very lucrative” by the player.

It is understood that Munoz is prepared to make the switch to St James’ Park this summer, but this is where Real Madrid make a deal far more complicated.

Los Blancos not only have the rights to 50 per cent of his sell-on fee, but they also have a buy-back clause in his contract, and the club’s stance is unclear right now.

The Magpies are likely to have to wait until the conclusion of Real Madrid’s presidential election on 7 June to gain clarity on the situation. The waiting game has already begun.

How else could Eddie Howe lose this summer?

The likes of Aaron Ramsdale, Kieran Trippier and Emil Krafth have all had their fates sealed, and they are unlikely to be the last who walk through the exit doors.

Lewis Hall is considering his future at St James’ Park, with Tino Livramento, Sandro Tonali, Yoane Wissa and Joe Willock all expected to depart.

Fabian Schar, on the other hand, appears set to sign a new contract with the Magpies, but Howe will need a lot more reinforcement in the centre of defence this summer.

Despite the manager currently being safe, Howe will be under pressure to get positive results as soon as the new campaign starts, and getting the right deals done will be at the centre of that.

Munoz looks to be a very exciting talent, and one that could be a very simple replacement for Gordon. Well, maybe not so simple.