Newcastle reportedly target out of favour Barcelona star in January rebuild

Newcastle takeover complete

Last week, many Newcastle fans’ dreams were made a reality when Mike Ashley’s 14-year reign in charge of the Tyneside club came to an end, and the Saudi Public Investment Fund took the reigns, backed with a hefty budget.

🤝 An investment group led by the Public Investment Fund, and also comprising PCP Capital Partners and RB Sports & Media, has completed the acquisition of 100% of Newcastle United Limited and Newcastle United Football Club Limited from St. James Holdings Limited.

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— Newcastle United FC (@NUFC) October 7, 2021

Now backed by the richest owners in World football, but sitting in the relegation zone without a win, the Magpies are sure to be spending money in January in order to avoid a somewhat humiliating relegation to England’s second tier.

Barcelona shopping spree in the works

As per Spanish reports, the Tyneside club are amongst those interested in the services of out-of-favour Barcelona defender Clement Lenglet. As per the outlet AS Sport:

“they want a left footed defender who can perform immediately and won’t cost too much as a starting point given Barcelona’s economic circumstances.”

Beyond the fact that Barcelona are in financial difficulties, and need to recoup as much money as possible, combined with Newcastle’s newly procured wealth, it is hard to see how reliable this story really is.

Defensive issues are largely the least of Newcastle’s worries, and they have already been strongly linked with Burnley defender James Tarkowski in January, who has significant Premier League experience and would be avialable for roughly the same price. If this proves to be the case, will the Tyneside club really look to change both centre backs?

Furthermore, there are still massive question marks surrounding who will be in charge, with Steve Bruce widely anticipated to depart but no clear indication of who will replace him at this stage. Will they have no say on incomings?

Read more:

Newcastle begin the hunt for a sporting director; Rangnick & Edwards among linked names

Manchester United name their price for Jesse Lingard as Premier League clubs target January swoop