Newcastle United have joined Manchester United in the race to sign talented German midfielder Felix Nmecha, according to reports. The former Manchester City youngster has enjoyed a sparkling start to the World Cup, starring in Germany’s wins over Curacao and Ivory Coast.
The 25-year-old joined Borussia Dortmund three years ago after a spell at Wolfsburg, but faces an uncertain future at the Bundesliga club with several European giants interested in a summer transfer. United have already been linked with a move for Nmecha as they seek to further bolster Michael Carrick’s midfield after the signing of Brazil international Ederson.
Gary Neville endorses Nmecha move
A move for Nmecha has been endorsed by former United defender Gary Neville, who told ITV recently: ‘The more he plays like he did the other night the more expensive he’ll get. At the moment, we hear Manchester United are being quoted £100 million for the West Ham boy Fernandes, so they’re going to have to be looking around this tournament and parts of Europe. Nmecha looked outstanding the other night, it looked like he had absolutely everything.’
However, the Red Devils will face competition for Nmecha, with Sky Sports reporting that Newcastle are keen on a move for the tall, deep-lying midfielder. Eddie Howe is said to be a big fan of Nmecha and considered trying to bring him to Newcastle in 2023.
Nmecha's buy-out clause and Newcastle's financial situation
The report adds that Nmecha has a €85m (£75.5m) buy-out in his Dortmund contract, which currently runs until 2030. Newcastle are not said to be keen to fork out that figure to sign Nmecha, but may have additional funds to spend if they decide to cash in on Sandro Tonali and Bruno Guimaraes.
Tonali is expected to leave St James’ Park this summer, although Newcastle are holding out for a £100m fee for the Italian midfielder. Tottenham have already had two bids rejected by Newcastle for the 26-year-old, with Arsenal and Manchester City also considering making an approach.
Arsenal's bid for Guimaraes rejected
Arsenal, meanwhile, are also keen to sign Guimaraes, but saw an opening £55m bid rejected by Newcastle, who have no desire to sell their captain. The Gunners are expected to return with a second bid for the Brazilian international, who has provided three assists already at the World Cup.
