Newcastle United are reportedly preparing a late move for a France international striker before the January transfer window closes, as Eddie Howe looks to strengthen his attacking options — a development that could complicate Tottenham Hotspur’s plans.
The Magpies currently have three recognised strikers in their squad: Nick Woltemade, Yoane Wissa and William Osula.
Woltemade has delivered a respectable return of nine goals and four assists from 31 appearances this season, but Wissa has struggled with injuries and has managed only two Premier League starts in the 2025/26 campaign. Meanwhile, 22-year-old Osula has seen limited action, clocking just 213 league minutes so far.
According to Sports Boom, Newcastle are actively searching for a new forward and have identified Crystal Palace striker Jean-Philippe Mateta as a key target. The report claims the Saudi-backed club are “plotting a swoop” for the 28-year-old France international, with the Magpies among several teams to have shown interest this month as they push for a top-four Premier League finish.
Newcastle’s interest represents a fresh obstacle for Tottenham, who have also been tracking Mateta. TEAMtalk transfer correspondent Fraser Fletcher reported on January 23 that Spurs are keen on a January move for the Palace forward.
Tottenham boss Thomas Frank is believed to be seeking attacking reinforcements due to Richarlison’s ongoing injury concerns, with Mateta viewed as a potential option to support Dominic Solanke. However, any Spurs move is thought to hinge on the early termination of Randal Kolo Muani’s loan spell from Juventus.
It is understood that Mateta is open to leaving Crystal Palace midway through the season, though the Eagles are holding out for a fee of around £40 million.
That valuation has also caught the attention of Chelsea, who have reportedly contacted the striker’s representatives, while Everton are monitoring the situation but would need to offload Beto before making a move.
Juventus have already submitted proposals — including a loan-to-buy offer — but Palace have turned them down. Despite this, the Serie A side remain attentive to developments surrounding Mateta’s future.
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