Newcastle United plot fresh move for Chelsea star — £60m deal could trigger it in blow for Man Utd

Newcastle United have interest in Crystal Palace’s Michael Olise and Chelsea’s Noni Madueke as Eddie Howe looks to make a right forward his marquee signing this summer.

The Magpies announced their first signing of summer window this week with Lloyd Kelly joining on a free transfer from AFC Bournemouth. The 25-year-old has penned a five-year contract, including an option of a further year, and offers covers at both left-back and centre-back.

United also remain in talks with Burnley over bringing in James Trafford. It’s been suggested that the England goalkeeper has already agreed personal terms over a move but a transfer fee is still to be agreed with the Clarets asking for around £20million.

Another priority position is the right-hand side of attack, where Newcastle are likely to commit most of their budget — restricted by Premier League Profitability and Sustainability Rules (PSR) — on strengthening.

Howe’s men are understood to have contacted Crystal Palace over Olise, who has a £60million release, but several Premier League clubs will push to sign the 22-year-old. Chelsea, as it stands, are reportedly leading the charge for his signature ahead of Manchester City, Manchester United, Arsenal and Liverpool.

But as first reported by i News, the Magpies also hold an interest in Madueke, raising the possibility of a domino affect. Indeed, If the Blues were to win the race for Olise then that could see Madueke sold with Cole Palmer and Omari Hutchison already providing competition.

Madueke signed a seven-year contract when he joined Chelsea from PSV Eindhoven for £29m in January 2023 and had struggled to nail down a regular spot in the starting XI until the back end of last season. He is still only 22-years-old and has represented England from under-16s to under-21s level.

But Newcastle also have their own decisions to make when it comes to selling players, particularly on the right wing. Any departures will significantly boost the club’s transfer budget in line with PSR.

Miguel Almiron had an approach from the Saudi Pro League in January but opted to stay put. Interest, however, remains and Howe is open to letting the Paraguayan go after managing just three goals and one assist last term.

There is also speculation surrounding Yankuba Minteh. The Gambian completed his £7m switch from Odense last summer but is yet to kick a ball for United after spending the 2023-24 season on loan at Feyenoord. The 19-year-old still needs time to develop and any offers would allow Newcastle to make an instant profit on the winger.