Newcastle United consider move for 31-goal Premier League star as Joelinton blow feared

Newcastle United are set to be without Joelinton for the remainder of the 2023-24 season as the Brazilian prepares to undergo thigh surgery next week.

The 27-year-old picked up the issue during the Magpies' 3-0 Tyne-Wear derby win over Sunderland, a game where he set up the opener and watched as Alexander Isak scored the first of his two goals before departing early in the second-half.

United head coach Eddie Howe, speaking before last weekend's defeat to Manchester City, stated Joelinton would be sidelined for a minimum of six weeks, however, he won't play again this season as surgery will require four months recovery.

And with that, Mail Online claim Joelinton might have played his last game for Newcastle. Contract talks are currently at a standstill with the midfielder eyeing a deal that would make him the club's highest earner.

If an agreement is not reached, it's feared Newcastle may have to sell the Brazil international in the summer or risk losing him for free in 12 months later (2025). United CEO Darren Eales recently revealed that selling players was a possibility as they comply with Premier League Profitability and Sustainability Rules (PSR).

But Howe doesn't want to lose Joelinton. Speaking about his injury last week, Howe said: "It’s a real blow for us because he's such an important player.  He's had a very stop-start season unfortunately this year where he was so consistent last year. He's had a few different problems and this is a big blow.

"You're never going to get a like-for-like replacement, he is our midfield driving force physically. We've got no one like him."

Mail Online also claim Newcastle have drawn up a shortlist of midfield replacements, which includes AFC Bournemouth's Philip Billing. Howe signed the Dane for £15million in 2019, where he has netted 31 times in 179 appearances. Others names include Middlesbrough's Hayden Hackney and Atalanta's Ederson.