Antonio Nusa delivered a standout performance for Norway at the World Cup, scoring a brilliant goal against Ivory Coast in the round of 32. The 21-year-old RB Leipzig winger, a reported target for Newcastle United, showcased the qualities that manager Eddie Howe admires.
Nusa's World Cup Heroics
In the 39th minute, Nusa cut inside from the left and curled a shot into the far corner, giving Norway a 1-0 lead. The goal was his second of the tournament, following a impressive display in the 4-1 group-stage win over Iraq. Nusa has gradually earned a starting spot under Norway coach Stale Solbakken.
According to The Chronicle, Newcastle scouts have been monitoring Nusa throughout the season. RB Leipzig are reportedly willing to accept a reduced fee of £43.1 million for the winger, down from previous valuations.
Newcastle's Transfer Plans
Newcastle have funds available after selling Anthony Gordon to Barcelona for £69.3 million in June. The club view Nusa as a long-term replacement for Gordon on the left wing. Despite receiving a £5.2 million fine from UEFA for breaching Financial Sustainability Regulations, Newcastle are in a position to invest.
Both Gordon and Nusa share a similar career path: each was on the verge of joining Chelsea before last-minute bids were rejected. Nusa was 18 when Chelsea had a £23 million offer turned down by Club Brugge, while Gordon moved to Newcastle from Everton in 2023 for £40 million.
Interest from Other Clubs
Nusa has attracted a long list of admirers, including Chelsea, Juventus, Bayern Munich, Tottenham, and Crystal Palace. However, no advanced talks have taken place, giving Newcastle an opportunity to act.
Newcastle have already missed out on top target Victor Munoz, who joined Liverpool from Osasuna. The club faces pressure to strengthen, with Bruno Guimaraes and Sandro Tonali linked to Big Six rivals, and Tino Livramento and Lewis Hall also attracting interest.
Howe's Ideal Player
Nusa fits the profile of a player Howe adores: dynamic in attack, using pace to glide past defenders, and diligent in tracking back on the left side. These traits were key to Gordon's success at Newcastle.
"I love one-on-one situations. It's what I enjoy most about football – dribbling, having the freedom to create something on the pitch," Nusa said previously. "I try to help them settle in off the pitch. But the most important thing is: always be yourself. Work hard, but never lose the joy."
Since joining RB Leipzig from Club Brugge, Nusa scored on his debut but has taken time to adapt to the Bundesliga, netting seven goals in 56 league appearances. He played 31 league games in the 2025/26 season, highlighting his growing importance.
Potential Obstacles
Leipzig are keen to retain Nusa, especially if they lose another young star, Yan Diomande. The 19-year-old is a target for Liverpool but expected to join Paris Saint-Germain in a deal exceeding £100 million. If Diomande departs, Leipzig may be reluctant to sell Nusa unless they receive a massive offer.
Nusa has expressed contentment with his current situation. "Even when I'm just playing in the Bundesliga, I'm like realising, 'Wow, it's just a dream.' And, to be able to go to a World Cup will be another moment where you say, 'wow, I'm really blessed for that'," he said earlier this month. "I'm really thankful and happy that every week I get to have this chance because not a lot of people have it."
Nevertheless, heads can be turned in football. If Howe is serious about revitalising Newcastle and breaking into the Big Six, signing top talent like Nusa would signal their ambition for next season.
