Sports
Newcastle in pole position to sign “exceptional” Brazil international Wesley Franca
Newcastle United could be set to bolster their defensive ranks as they push for an exciting full-back who several clubs hold an interest in.
Newcastle dealing with defensive injury crisis
The 2025/26 season started slowly for Newcastle, who entered it with a Carabao Cup win and Champions League football for the second time in three years. With three wins in their latest Premier League matches, though, the Magpies are up to sixth in a congested top flight table.
They spent heavily in the summer to revitalise their attack, and while both Anthony Elanga and Jacob Ramsey have failed to find consistency since their big-money moves, German forward Nick Woltemade has been an unquestioned success.
Now well in the midst of the January transfer window, it appears that Eddie Howe wants to reinforce his side at the other end of the pitch having encountered several injuries which have left his defensive ranks threadbare.
The boss confirmed Fabian Schar’s injury is “maybe not as bad as it first looked” this week, but did admit the experienced defender faces a spell on the sidelines.
“He’s obviously got an injury there but no break. We think it’s just ligament damage but he’s seeing a specialist in the next few days to get some definitive answers, but maybe more positive than the initial assessment.”
Jamaal Lascelles meanwhile is not currently training due to a lack of match fitness, and both Emil Krafth and Dan Burn are battling long-term injuries, so it is no surprise to see PIF looking to the winter market to strengthen the ranks.
Newcastle keen on Wesley Franca
According to reports via GIVEMESPORT, Newcastle are one of three Premier League sides to have shown interest in right-back Wesley Franca.
The Brazilian established himself at Flamengo, joining Roma in the summer of 2025, where he quickly became a key part of the team under head coach Gian Piero Gasperini.
Despite interest from both Manchester City and Tottenham Hotspur in completing a move, Newcastle appear to be leading the race, albeit any deal for Franca would be hard to complete in January.
Flamengo manager and former Chelsea defender Felipe Luis has heaped praise on the young defender in the past, saying: “He’s the kind of player who will decide where he wants to play come June. There’s no ceiling for this kid; he’s exceptional.”
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He’s been of the most in-form players in the Premier League as of late.
Full-back is certainly an area in which Newcastle need depth, with the experienced Kieran Trippier now being 35 years old and passing beyond his prime years.
Tino Livramento, meanwhile, has long been a target for Manchester City and were the English international to leave, it would be imperative that the Magpies bring in an ample replacement.
Comfortable in both defensive and attacking phases of play, Wesley Franca would be a phenomenal addition for Newcastle. Still just 22 years old, his profile would suit the high-intensity brand of football that Newcastle have become known for under Howe’s guidance.
Whether or not a deal can ultimately be agreed between the two clubs, however, remains to be seen.
