Eddie Howe has confirmed that Newcastle United is locked up in the signature of German forward Nick Urtemaid, but he says there is no update on Alexander Isaac’s future.
On Thursday, reports were revealed that Newcastle agreed to a deal to sign the 23-year-old Urtemaid, surpassing the £63 million that Magpie paid ISAK in 2022.
It was amidst a deadlock over Isaac’s future after Newcastle rejected a bid for Brentford attacker Joane Wissa and wolf striker Jorgen Strand Larsen.
Isak is not involved in Newcastle’s first two Premier League matches as he is pushing to join Liverpool. There is a belief that Woltemade can replace the Swedes.
Last season, Woltemade scored 17 goals and provided three assists in all competitions. Stuttgart finished 9th in Bundesliga and won the DFL-Pokal.
Crossing Europe’s top five leagues, he was one of 15 players born since 2002, achieving 20 target involvement in all competitions.
Prior to Saturday’s trip to Leeds United, Howe confirmed that the 6-foot-6-foot front was approaching his move to St. James Park, telling reporters:
“I think things are moving and developing in a good way at this point. I can’t see anything, but my fingers crossed.”
When asked if Woltemade would be registered in time for his trip to Elland Road, Howe added:
“The most important thing is we try to bring in centre forwards, which is what we have been working towards summer.
William Osla was able to lead the Newcastle line this weekend as Anthony Gordon banned three games following a red card against Liverpool on Monday.
Fabian Shah will be available after suffering a head injury in Newcastle’s final match, but Sandro Tonari can also feature, but Jollington will not return until after an international break.
Asked how Woltemade’s chances of arrival affected Isak, who is reportedly valued at £150 million, said Howe:
“I said before, I don’t know what the future will be like in that respect because I’m not involved in it. I don’t have any updates so I’m just focused on bringing players to the club.”
Liverpool boss Arne Slot was also asked about Isaac ahead of Sunday’s clash with Arsenal, but he confirmed that the Reds are scrutinizing the options market.
“If it’s true that Newcastle signed a new number nine, then that’s really great for Eddie, as Anthony Gordon has been suspended and Isaac is not trained,” Slot said.
“After Monday evening, we said we could do an alternative to affect the game. As always, we’re going to try and sign a player who can help us.
“But after the first two games, there’s no reason to need or think about it.
“If we can strengthen our team, we’ll try to do that for the right money and the right players. Let’s see if we’re going to do something and if we can do it.”