Liverpool Keep Tabs as Newcastle Push for Brentford Star
Yoane Wissa's time at Brentford appears to be reaching its conclusion, with clubs from across Europe, the Premier League and Saudi Arabia positioning themselves to secure his services. According to CaughtOffside, the 28-year-old DR Congo international has returned to first-team training after resolving internal matters with the coaching staff, but his stance on leaving remains unchanged.
'Wissa's return to training marks his first involvement with the squad since abruptly departing the club's pre-season camp in Portugal on July 21.' The reintegration has done little to dampen speculation, with Brentford placing a £50 million valuation on a player who netted 20 goals last season.
Premier League Interest Gathers Pace
Within England's top flight, Newcastle United, Tottenham Hotspur and Liverpool are all monitoring developments. Newcastle are currently the most advanced, having seen an opening bid rejected but continuing talks with his representatives. 'The player is enthusiastic about a switch to St. James' Park,' where Eddie Howe is keen to add further attacking firepower.
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Tottenham's interest is genuine but hampered by their reluctance to meet Brentford's full asking price. Liverpool, meanwhile, are reportedly considering Wissa as a potential alternative if their move for Alexander Isak fails.
Saudi Clubs Ready to Pay
Saudi Arabian sides are also circling, with Al Nassr, featuring Cristiano Ronaldo and Joao Felix, believed to be willing to meet Brentford's demands. Ambitious newcomers Neom are said to have entered the race, seeking to bolster their squad with a proven Premier League scorer.
Decision Time Approaching
With negotiations taking place on several fronts, the situation appears to be moving towards an inevitable conclusion. As one source told CaughtOffside, 'It now seems a question of when, not if, Wissa bids farewell to Brentford.' For the Bees, losing a 20-goal striker would be a significant blow, yet the transfer fee could provide crucial resources for squad rebuilding.
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From a Newcastle United fan's perspective, this feels like a tantalising prospect. Wissa brings pace, power and a ruthless streak in front of goal that could complement their existing attacking options. The fact he is 'enthusiastic about a switch to St. James' Park' will only fuel excitement on Tyneside, where Eddie Howe has earned trust for his transfer vision.
Liverpool supporters may feel mixed. On one hand, Wissa could provide a much-needed attacking spark, particularly with uncertainty around other targets. On the other, many will question whether £50 million represents good value, especially if he is seen as a fallback rather than a first-choice acquisition.
Tottenham fans may be concerned their hesitancy will see them miss out yet again. In a competitive market, moving slowly can mean watching rivals strengthen while they stand still.
Saudi interest is unsurprising. For Brentford, it offers an opportunity to get their full valuation and potentially reinvest heavily. Yet for Premier League watchers, losing Wissa abroad would be a shame, as he has the attributes to light up the league for several more seasons.
If this is indeed his farewell season, the coming weeks could decide whether he remains in English football or becomes the latest top-flight talent to make a lucrative move overseas.
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