Sports
Newcastle have held talks to sign their new Guimaraes
The Saudi PIF have changed Newcastle United forever, with their investment handing a generation of supporters memories that will no doubt last a lifetime.
Their spending in the transfer market may have been excessive in certain stages, but it’s handed Eddie Howe the platform he’s needed for success on Tyneside.
He led the side to the Carabao Cup last season, subsequently winning their first trophy in 56 years, something which would have been unthinkable under the previous ownership group.
Their consistent finishes in the top five of the Premier League have led to numerous Champions League campaigns, which has seen the Magpies come up against the best Europe has to offer.
However, the January transfer window could present another opportunity for the board to flex their muscles and invest once again into the first-team squad.
Newcastle enter talks to sign former PL sensation
Ahead of the January transfer window, Newcastle have no doubt been targeting added defensive reinforcements amid the recent injury struggles facing the Magpies.
Tarik Muharemovic, who plays for Serie A side Sassuolo, has been firmly on their radar over the last few weeks, but a transfer battle for his signature could well be on the cards.
Juventus are also said to be interested in the 22-year-old’s services, but it’s currently unclear how much the Bosnian youngster could cost in the winter window.
However, the midfield department could also be subject to investment, with Ruben Neves a player who the Magpies are interested in completing a move for.
According to TEAMtalk, Howe’s men have already reached out to Al Hilal over a move for the Portuguese international who wants a return to the Premier League.
The report also states that the Magpies could hold an advantage in the race for the 28-year-old’s signature, given their links to the Saudi Pro League through their current owners.
Why Neves could be Newcastle’s next Guimaraes
Spending big money on a midfielder in January hasn’t been alien to Newcastle, as seen by the £40m move to land Bruno Guimaraes back in the winter window in 2022.
Such a move was one of the first pieces of huge business conducted by the hierarchy after their takeover, with the deal still standing as one of their best to date.
The Brazilian has now racked up 178 appearances for the Magpies in the last four years, often being the shining light in the club’s recent success across various competitions.
Guimaraes has also been in fine form throughout the early stages of 2025/26, as seen by his tally of five goals and two assists in his first 15 league games of the season.
However, the board could replicate a move for the 28-year-old with a move for Neves in the weeks ahead – a deal that could prove to be a really shrewd piece of business.
The former Wolves star has previously spent five years in England’s top-flight, subsequently having the tools to provide a superb experienced option at the heart of the side.
His stats from his current season in Saudi Arabia showcase his talents, with the Portuguese international undoubtedly a man who would improve the options at Howe’s disposal.
|
Ruben Neves – stats in 2025/26 |
|
|---|---|
|
Statistics (per 90) |
Tally |
|
Games played |
9 |
|
Goals scored |
4 |
|
Passes completed |
91% |
|
Chances created |
1.4 |
|
Touches per game |
97 |
|
Times dispossessed |
0 |
|
Duels won |
67% |
|
Recoveries made |
5.1 |
|
Stats via FotMob |
|
He’s currently boasting a 91% pass completion rate in the Middle East, whilst averaging 71 passes per 90 – with both ranking him in the top 5% of all players in the division.
Both tallies highlight his incredible ability with the ball at his feet, something which Guimaraes has become known for during his own spell at St James’ Park.
However, out of possession, Neves has been just as impressive, as seen by his tally of 1.1 tackles won and 59% duels won – subsequently offering a dominant presence.
Other tallies, such as 67% aerials won and 5.1 recoveries made per 90, also showcase his all-round talent – leading to huge praise being directed his way as a result.
Football Doctor Raj Chohan has previously been singing his praises, even claiming that the former Wolves star is now “the most underrated player in world football”.
It’s unclear how much a deal for the midfielder could cost this winter, but it’s certainly a move that would bolster the squad and strengthen the club’s chances of success.
If he can get anywhere near the levels produced by Guimaraes on Tyneside, he will certainly become a fan-favourite and have the chance to add further silverware to his resume.
Not just Willock: Howe must drop Newcastle star who lost the ball 25 times
Newcastle United secured their place in the semi-final of the Carabao Cup with a win against Fulham last night.
