Newcastle United have been quietly reshaping the core of their squad. They keep one eye on the present and another on future transfer windows. Their scouting network searches across Europe to identify...
Newcastle United have been quietly reshaping the core of their squad. They keep one eye on the present and another on future transfer windows. Their scouting network searches across Europe to identify players who can fit Eddie Howe’s flexible setup. The Magpies recently linked themselves with several ambitious moves, including Liverpool’s growing interest in Sven Botman and their own readiness to table a €70 million bid for Oihan Sancet in January 2026. These reports show how determined the club is to maintain momentum both on the pitch and in the transfer market.
Newcastle United eye Atletico Madrid striker Alexander Sørloth as scouts assess his fit for Eddie Howe’s evolving attacking system
Amid these plans, MARCA reports that the Tyneside club now targets Alexander Sørloth. The striker’s form in Spain has caught Newcastle’s attention. Scouts from the Premier League side recently watched him in action to check if his style suits Howe’s system. Sørloth now plays for Atletico Madrid after joining from Villarreal in the summer of 2024 for €32 million plus €10 million in add-ons. The Norwegian ended a superb season by scoring 23 La Liga goals. He carried that form into Madrid and hit another 20 league strikes in his first campaign.
Diego Simeone values Sørloth’s strength and aerial ability. He often uses him as the focal point in Atletico’s direct approach. Yet MARCA claims Atletico could sell the 29-year-old if they receive a strong offer. Simeone rates him highly, but financial sense sometimes forces tough calls. Newcastle’s interest shows more than admiration; it shows they want a different profile to strengthen a frontline built on pace and movement.
Sørloth’s Fit in Howe’s Tactical Puzzle:
MADRID, SPAIN – SEPTEMBER 27: Alexander Sorloth of Atletico de Madrid celebrates scoring his team’s second goal during the LaLiga EA Sports match between Atletico de Madrid and Real Madrid CF at Riyadh Air Metropolitano on September 27, 2025 in Madrid, Spain. (Photo by Florencia Tan Jun/Getty Images)
Sørloth brings something new to Newcastle’s attack. Unlike Alexander Isak, who stretches defences with pace and sharp runs, the Norwegian thrives on physical duels and link-up play. Howe builds his side around mobility up front. Yet recent adjustments show he wants to adapt. His work with Nick Woltemade shows he now prefers a striker who holds the ball and brings wingers like Anthony Gordon and Anthony Elanga into play.
Sørloth’s record at Trabzonspor and Villarreal proves his consistent finishing ability. His father once said that his earlier Premier League spell at Crystal Palace failed because of bad luck. An untimely injury and a wrongly disallowed goal broke his rhythm. Confidence plays a huge role for any forward, and Sørloth has rebuilt his in Spain.
Whether he repeats that success in England remains uncertain. Isak’s lively style played a vital role in Howe’s setup, and it will take a bold move from the Magpies to change that. Still, if Newcastle believe balance and tactical variety matter, Sørloth can give them a valuable alternative option. He can add a new shape to their attack instead of replacing what already works.
Category: General Sports