The Magpies have lately made news for a late race to raise finances to meet the Premier League’s Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR), which shockingly resulted in Elliot Anderson joining Nottingham Forest for £35 million.
Although the June 30th deadline for PSR has gone, Newcastle should remain fiscally conservative and consider a potential market opportunity.
In December 2021, the Chronicle reported that Newcastle were considering a deal to sign Gabriel Barbosa.
According to the source, Steve Nickson, Newcastle’s Head of Recruitment, has been tracking the Brazilian since 2018 and has made many journeys to South America to scout the striker.
After spending £63 million to acquire Alexander Isak, talk of Barbosa joining Newcastle died down, but recent conversations with Everton about Dominic Calvert-Lewin indicate Eddie Howe still wants another striker this summer.
Now, the long-term Nickson target may join Newcastle for free.
Fabrizio Romano disclosed earlier on Monday that Barbosa intends to leave Flamengo on a free transfer when his contract expires in December, however any interested clubs can reach a pre-contract agreement to grab his services now.
Junior Pedroso, the South American’s representative, told the reliable Italian journalist that Gabriel had a contract till December. He can sign a pre-contract (with another club) beginning July 1st, and we will begin to work on this possibility.”
Instead of reaching Everton’s £40 million asking price for Calvert-Lewin, Newcastle could try to capture Barbosa on a free transfer.
The Brazil international, who is still only 27, is a famous character at Flamengo, having scored 145 goals in 275 games and contributed 39 assists.
Of course, there is the possibility that Barbosa may be unable to duplicate his goal-scoring heroics in English football, but on a free transfer, Newcastle has little to lose by taking a look.
Not only is the Flamengo No.99’s goal record appealing for a free move, but he was once valued at £40 million, so Newcastle might earn a significant profit on a future sell.
Keep a watch on the situation, as Barbosa intends to depart Flamengo.
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