Newcastle United have ‘clear pathway’ to Chelsea and Arsenal transfer target

Newcastle United are believed to have ‘a pretty clear pathway’ to signing reported transfer target Edson Alvarez.

The Magpies are said to be keen to add another midfielder to their squad this summer as they look to further strengthen Eddie Howe’s squad once again. A defensive midfielder is being targeted as they look to free up Bruno Guimaraes and allow the Brazil star to make more of an impact further up the pitch.

Several options have been considered by Ajax and Mexico star Alvarez is said to have been watched by United’s recruitment staff over the last 12 months and there was speculation they were preparing an offer for the midfielder during the summer transfer window.

Chelsea and Arsenal have also been linked with Alvarez and the 25-year-old opened up on a failed bid from the Blues in an interview given to ESPN earlier this season.

He said: “There was interest from Chelsea. Nobody expected that they would make another offer. It was a difficult situation. Ajax really couldn’t do anything. They didn’t have a player in my position. Of course I fought as far as I could. I didn’t want to do that too much. Because I know the responsibility I have within the club.”

With thoughts now turning towards the summer transfer window once again, Newcastle are reportedly considering reigniting their interest in Alvarez and journalist Dean Jones believes the Magpies would have little competition if they were to make their move.

Speaking to GiveMeSport, he said: “I think this is a situation that they don’t have to rush into.

“While there’s definitely admiration for Alvarez from multiple clubs around Europe, it doesn’t feel like you could get behind in a battle at this stage. I think there’s a pretty clear pathway to go for him as and when you want to.”