Why Newcastle could regret making wonderkid transfer

Suraj Radia

26 Jun 2024 12:00 BST
4 min read

Newcastle may live to regret their decision if they choose to cash in on one of their prized assets this month as they look to avoid potential punishment over financial concerns.

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The Magpies reportedly need to raise around €40 million before the end of June to avoid violating the Premier League’s profit and sustainability rules, having spent more than €400m on players since their Saudi takeover in 2021.

With offers for Newcastle’s ideal sale candidates appearing scarce, the club could be forced to cash in on Yankuba Minteh, who has attracted attention from teams all across Europe.

Minteh impressed on loan at Feyenoord last season and the 19-year-old is now set to leave Newcastle this summer, with the club hoping his departure would solve any discrepancies over the PSR rules.

“It is correct that Newcastle are willing to sell the player if they receive a good offer,” the player’s agent told The Chronicle. “From our side, if Newcastle wants to sell and the sporting project is good we will definitely look at it.

“We are in communication with some clubs. I can’t confirm clubs who are in communication with us. We have agreed terms with one of the clubs. So now the rest is with Newcastle.”

© IMAGO - Yankuba Minteh impressed on loan at Feyenoord last season.

Why Newcastle feel justified in selling wonderkid Minteh

Newcastle are exploring all options, although bids have not yet been forthcoming for the likes of Callum Wilson, Miguel Almiron and Martin Dubravka, whom the club would be willing to sell.

The expiration of Bruno Guimaraes release clause, worth more than €100m, will provide some relief to Eddie Howe, with the Brazilian now appearing likely to remain at St James’ Park this summer, along with Alexander Isak.

READ MORE: Latest Newcastle transfer news

But Newcastle will likely reluctantly have to cash in on Minteh despite the winger only joining the club last summer and displaying immense potential in a position the Magpies are looking to strengthen in.

Interest from the likes of Lyon, Dortmund and Everton has only justified Newcastle’s belief in Minteh’s potential, having played semi-professionally in his native country of The Gambia until just two years ago.

STATS

Yankuba Minteh

AM (RL), M (R)

Feyenoord

Yankuba Minteh

AM (RL), M (R)

Feyenoord

37

Games
11

Goals
5

Assists

Minteh’s meteoric rise shows no sign of slowing down and the forward, who has three goals in six games for his country, could end up being worth far more than the €40m Newcastle are hoping to receive for him.

Newcastle’s decision to cash in on a prospect who has yet to play for the team is understandable given the situation, particularly if it means Guimaraes and Isak remain at the club.

However, prematurely selling a player with Minteh’s potential, particularly while looking to splash out on a player in his position, may prove to be short-sighted by Newcastle if the youngster continues to blossom into the superstar he is lining up to be.