Newcastle United unlikely to move for Teun Koopmeiners in January
Newcastle United are unlikely to make a move for midfield target Teun Koopmeiners in January, as they do not consider the Atalanta star a priority.
The events since the start of the season for Newcastle United have made it necessary to find a new midfielder in the January market. The Magpies, rocked by the 10-month ban of summer signing Sandro Tonali, feel a bit short in that position and could dash the next window to find a replacement.
Reports of varying degrees have suggested different ideas for the Magpies to explore. For some time recently, they had links to Ruben Neves, but a new rule may block moves between two entities under the same ownership, as the Portuguese played for PIF-owned Al Hilal in Saudi Arabia.
There have been links to other players, as Eddie Howe might prioritise a new midfielder and probably a defender in that window. Sticking to the need to replace Tonali, the Magpies are looking at different options, but the FFP restrictions would prevent them from spending big in January.
Manchester City’s Kalvin Phillips remains linked, while there are other connections to other Premier League experienced players. The report suggests that Newcastle United may have to find an intelligent solution that would enable them to sign a midfielder without irking those FFP lines.
They are also interested in Ederson, but Howe may have been more attracted towards his Atalanta teammate Teun Koopmeiners. The £55 million-rated Dutch international was unavailable last summer as the Serie A side considered him important and had already made good money with the transfer of Rasmus Hojlund to Manchester United.
Newcastle United are not alone in pursuing the Dutchman, with several other clubs, including Manchester United and Liverpool, keeping close tabs on the midfielder. With his contract expiring in 2025 with the option of another season, Atalanta may open their doors to a sale, but only next summer.
As things stand, Newcastle United have some doubts about whether they should consider Koopmeiners a priority target. The main reason would be the price placed on the £55 million-rated Dutch international, and the Magpies might have found another solution in the market that suits their pockets.
The report also suggests Newcastle United could offer to take Koopmeiners on loan with an obligation to buy. Whether they are willing to pay the £55 million price tag on the Dutchman remains the question, making the transfer even more doubtful.