Newcastle United transfer developments as Chelsea deliver bad news

With the 2022 World Cup coming to a thrilling conclusion on Sunday, several of its standout players are attracting the attention of big clubs across Europe and beyond. Croatia were one of the standout teams at the tournament, with a collection of their players receiving plaudits - including a young centre back, who has been linked with a move to Newcastle.

The Magpies’ Allan Saint-Maximin has been speaking to a fellow French attacking player who played at the World Cup. He, along with several others associated with the club, are keen on bringing him to St. James’ Park.

As well as this, Newcastle have been looking at a Brazilian wonderkid, who could potentially play a huge role at St. James’ Park in the future. However, they are set to lose the race for his signature to Chelsea.

Newcastle in contention to sign Gvardiol

Josko Gvardiol was a sensation at the back for Croatia in the World Cup. At just 20 years old, he displayed impressive defensive maturity and solidity - his performances have made him a transfer target for several massive clubs.

According to This is Futbol, he has been on Newcastle’s radar long before the World Cup even started. Alan Shearer also said that the defender would ‘look good in a black and white shirt’. However, Newcastle will face stern competition if they wish to sign him. He is also reportedly a target for clubs such as Chelsea, Real Madrid and Manchester City.

Saint-Maximin in contact with French World Cup superstar

In an bid to get him to join Newcastle’s attacking ranks, Allan Saint-Maximin has been in contact with France’s Marcus Thuram. Thuram’s contract with Borussia Mönchengladbach expires in the summer, meaning the Geordies could sign him on a free if they are willing to wait.

Saint-Maximin said on speaking with Thuram: “Yeah, I will be honest, I have chatted with him. For me, he’s a great player. I’ve known this guy a long time. I’ve been playing football with him when I was very young. I know all his family. He has great parents. He’s an incredible guy.”

Thuram has had an excellent season in the Bundesliga so far. The 25-year-old has scored 10 goals and racked up three assists in just 15 appearances for Mönchengladbach.

Newcastle set to lose out on Brazilian wonderkid

Andrey Santos, a teenage Brazilian central midfielder, has caught the eye of several big clubs - including Newcastle. However, the Magpies will likely lose the race to sign him, as he looks set to join Chelsea instead.

According to FourFourTwo, Santos is just one of many young players who are being snapped up by Chelsea, as part of an initiative masterminded by Blues owner Todd Boehly. The 18-year-old has made 38 appearances for his current club, Vasco de Gama, scoring eight goals.