‘Newcastle will get Joelinton deal done’ amid ‘£100m’ verdict
Newcastle star Joelinton has been linked with a St James’ Park exit in a potential deal which could open a can of worms for Eddie Howe’s side.
The 28-year-old has been linked (as per Alex Crook, 17 June) with a move to Saudi Pro League giants Al-Hilal and other sides in the Middle East.
Newcastle are Saudi-backed, meaning any transfer to Saudi Arabia would likely be assessed for fair market value by the Premier League and Uefa.
Joelinton is under contract until June 2028 and was a regular starter for the Magpies last season as they finished fifth in the table and secured Champions League qualification.
Everton’s former chief Keith Wyness – who served as CEO at Goodison Park between 2004 and 2009 and now runs a football consultancy advising elite clubs – has had his say on Newcastle running into issues if Joelinton moves to the Saudi Pro League.
Newcastle ‘won’t risk’ triggering Joelinton controversy, says Wyness
Speaking on the new edition of Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast, Wyness claimed the Tyneside club will not face issues as long as Joelinton isn’t sold for “£100million plus”.
The Brazil international has been transformed into a top midfielder since Howe’s arrival at St James’ Park.
Wyness insisted Newcastle are unlikely to risk trying to get an inflated transfer deal through the authorities’ checks.
He told Football Insider‘s Inside Track podcast: “It would be an associated party transaction, or APT as we’ve all learnt those initials with Man City’s case.
“Absolutely, they’ll be looking at the valuation.
“If we suddenly see Joelinton being transferred for £200million, then yes, we should be looking at that.
“Is there a fair value? Yes, of course there is a fair value for him – he’s been an outstanding performer for Newcastle and he is still a high quality player. So he does have a good valuation, but it’s when it gets into the £100million plus sort of levels, we’re going to be a little bit concerned about that.
“But certainly, I think there will be a good look at the money that is paid and the deal that’s done to make sure it is in within a fair market value, which is quite right.
“Otherwise, all you’re seeing is just player transfers becoming another way to pump money into clubs from associated parties.
“I don’t think they’ll risk it. I think there’ll be a fair deal done.
“I think Joelinton will do very well in Saudi Arabia. As I say, he’s performed well in Newcastle. Eddie Howe really really turned him on and got him really firing for the Newcastle.
“The fans love him. And I think he’s enjoyed his time in Newcastle. Look, I think it’ll be OK. It’ll get done. And I don’t think there’s going to be anybody trying to bend the rules.”
Newcastle get Elanga response from Nottingham Forest
Meanwhile, Football Insider has revealed (15 June) that Nottingham Forest have told Newcastle to increase their offer for Anthony Elanga.
The Magpies have now been told they must make a bid of at least £50million to land the winger.
Sweden international Elanga scored six goals and provided 11 assists as he featured in every Premier League game for Forest in the 2024-25 campaign.
For more Newcastle United and exclusive news, follow us on Facebook or join our brand new WhatsApp Channel for instant updates to be sent straight to your phone.