Newcastle United are advancing negotiations with Manchester City over a deal for midfielder Nico González, with growing hope that an agreement can be reached this week.
The 24-year-old is valued at around £50 million and is understood to be open to a move to St James’ Park as Newcastle manager Matthias Jaissle looks to strengthen his midfield before the transfer window closes.
Talks between the clubs have moved forward after Newcastle initially held exploratory discussions over González. The Magpies’ interest comes during a significant rebuilding of their squad following the summer departures of Sandro Tonali and Bruno Guimarães.
Newcastle hope for breakthrough this week
Sky Sports News reporter Keith Downie says Newcastle are now advancing in talks with City and there is optimism that a deal can be struck this week.
González was part of the Manchester City squad for Sunday’s Premier League victory over Bournemouth but remained on the bench throughout the match.
His willingness to consider Newcastle could help negotiations as Jaissle attempts to add an experienced Premier League midfielder to a squad that has undergone considerable change this summer.
Newcastle’s interest in González emerged publicly last week, when reports indicated the club had identified him as a possible midfield reinforcement.
Jaissle wants Premier League experience
Newcastle have concentrated heavily on younger players during their summer rebuild, but Jaissle now wants to complement those additions with a midfielder who already understands the demands of the Premier League.
The German took charge following Eddie Howe’s departure and inherited a squad significantly reshaped by the sales of several established players. Newcastle have sold Guimarães to Arsenal, Tonali to Tottenham and Anthony Gordon to Barcelona this summer.
Jaissle acknowledged before the opening weekend that Newcastle’s squad was not yet complete and suggested further reinforcement was required.
González fits the profile Newcastle are now pursuing, combining Premier League experience with an age that still offers significant long-term value.
City’s midfield overhaul continues
Manchester City’s willingness to discuss González’s future comes amid extensive changes to their own midfield.
Rodri completed a move to Barcelona last week, prompting City head coach Enzo Maresca to confirm that the club intends to find a replacement for the Spain international.
City are also closing in on Lille teenager Ayyoub Bouaddi in a deal worth up to £85.6 million, further increasing competition for midfield places.
González’s future could therefore become one of the key deals to watch during the closing stages of the window, with Newcastle hoping negotiations can produce an agreement before the end of this week.
