Revealed: Newcastle’s stance on Joelinton exit amid new ‘concern’
Joelinton has been an important player in midfield for Newcastle United over a number of years, but concerns have emerged about his recent form.
Eddie Howe’s side lost 3-1 to West Ham in their last Premier League fixture, raising concerns about a number of their regular first-team stars.
Following the defeat, former Man United chief scout Mick Brown told Football Insider that Newcastle are worried about Anthony Gordon’s form and inconsistency.
The same is believed to be the case with Joelinton, although the Brazilian found the net as Newcastle beat Athletic Bilbao 2-0 in the Champions League this week.
A a result of his recent dip in form, the midfielder has been widely criticised, leading to suggestions the Magpies could look to upgrade in his position in the transfer window.
Newcastle have no plans to lose Joelinton
Newcastle have been linked with a number of potential midfield options in recent weeks, with Joelinton’s form pushing them towards a move in the January transfer window.
However, as I revealed on the latest edition of Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast, the Magpies have no plans to let the midfielder leave any time soon as still see him as a crucial part of their plans in the middle of the park.
While the Brazilian’s form has been a “concern” for Newcastle, they are hopeful he will soon get back to his best as part of their formidable midfield trio.
Speaking on the Inside Track podcast, I explained: “There’s no doubting that Joelinton’s not been at his best so far this season, he’s struggled for form and fitness.
“That will have been a bit of a concern, but I don’t think it’s a major issue for Newcastle.
“I still think he’s a key man for Eddie Howe’s side. He’s built a really strong partnership with Guimaraes and Tonali, and he offers something different to both of those.
“Joelinton’s had a bit of a dip in form, but he’ll be hoping that that goal against Athletic Club in the Champions League will give him a springboard maybe to kick on now.
“I don’t think they’ll be rushing in to make any decisions on Joelinton and his long-term future, I still think he’s got a key role to play for them.
“For me, if you’ve got Bruno, Tonali and Joelinton in midfield and when everybody’s fit and firing, that’s one of the strongest midfields in the Premier League and even the Champions League.”
This comes after Tonali signed a new contract, while Newcastle are planning talks with Guimaraes, as they aim to sure up their midfield options.
Newcastle eyeing potential Joelinton replacements
While Joelinton is not expected to leave Newcastle in the immediate future, there is a growing feeling that Howe could look to reinforce his midfield options.
Football Insider revealed on 12 October that Newcastle are interested in re-signing Elliot Anderson from Nottingham Forest and are keeping tabs on his displays.
The 22-year-old has quickly become one of England‘s finest midfielders and will almost certainly be in Thomas Tuchel’s World Cup squad next summer.
However, Football Insider revealed on 14 September that Anderson is happy to stay at Nottingham Forest and will not push for a move away in the immediate future.
Meanwhile, Newcastle have been linked with signing Kobbie Mainoo amid ongoing speculation about his future at Man United, with midfield reinforcements on their agenda.
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