Chelsea join race to sign Newcastle United transfer target - Arsenal & Man Utd also linked

Newcastle United's pursuit of Amadou Onana could be dealt a blow with reports suggesting Chelsea may move for the midfielder before Wednesday's deadline.

Newcastle are thought to have identified Onana as an excellent option to bolster their midfield, following a number of issues in that area. Eddie Howe will be without Sandro Tonali and Joelinton for the season due to suspension and injury respectively, with the latter's future uncertain amid a contract dispute.

Howe admitted earlier this week that selling Joelinton, whose contract expires in 2025, is a 'possibility' as Newcastle aim to comply with the Premier League's profit and sustainability Rules (PSR). But any move for Onana looks set to face serious competition with TEAMtalk now reporting on Chelsea's interest.

Mauricio Pochettino's side are thought to be open to selling Conor Gallagher, citing his academy status and the fact he could bring pure profit to Stamford Bridge as justification. They want upwards of £60million for the midfielder and could reinvest that in Onana.

Newcastle and Chelsea are among several top Premier League sides eyeing a move for the Belgian, who joined Everton for £33m in the summer of 2022. Sean Dyche's side are desperate not to lose their midfielder and would demand a fee of at least £50m, which will likely increase as Wednesday's deadline grows closer.

Arsenal and Manchester United have also been linked with Onana, and Everton's precarious financial position could encourage a sale. The Toffees have already been deducted 10 points this season and were charged for a second financial breach earlier this month.

Newcastle are thought to be keen on midfield reinforcements and were in talks with Manchester City for Kalvin Phillips. But the Magpies were eventually priced out due to City's demands of a loan fee and full salary coverage. Phillips joined West Ham on loan earlier this week.

Onana has played 50 Premier League games during his year-and-a-half at Goodison Park, scoring and assisting two a piece. His contract on Merseyside runs until 2027.