Newcastle Pushing for Controversial World Cup Star Transfer: Report

Newcastle United has been linked with yet another potential attacking addition as Matthias Jaissle continues assessing a squad that struggled for consistent goals last season.

According to L’Équipe’s Flavien Trésarrieu, Thomas Doucet and Loïc Tanzi, Newcastle has been closely monitoring Monaco striker Folarin Balogun since the beginning of the summer, although Tottenham has already made a move for the United States international and could beat the Magpies to the American.

“Since the start of the summer, several English [clubs] like Newcastle and Spanish clubs have been closely monitoring the player,” L’Équipe reported. “Tottenham have made their move in recent hours. The London club has laid the groundwork for discussions regarding a transfer estimated at €60 million.”

Balogun is represented by Jorge Mendes and remains under contract at Monaco through 2028, leaving the Ligue 1 club in a relatively strong position if Newcastle or another interested side decides to challenge Tottenham.

The 25-year-old is coming off his strongest campaign since moving permanently from Arsenal to Monaco in 2023, scoring 19 goals in 45 matches across all competitions.

Balogun’s name also hit the true spotlight during the 2026 World Cup after the American striker received a controversial red card against Bosnia-Herzegovina. FIFA controversially suspended his automatic one-match ban after U.S. President Donald Trump admitted to lobbying FIFA President Gianni Infantino, sparking widespread global backlash and accusations of political interference over sporting integrity.

L’Equipe’s report does not indicate that Newcastle has submitted a bid or entered negotiations yet, so Tottenham appears to be considerably further along in its pursuit at this stage.

On the more negative side of things, a Balogun exit could also have negative, collateral consequences for Newcastle in their reported chase of Monaco midfielder Lamine Camara.

“This potential transfer could have consequences for Lamine Camara, whose departure is no longer seen as a necessity by the Monaco management,” L’Equipe reported.

That could leave Newcastle with an interesting decision if its interest in both players develops: challenge Tottenham for Balogun or concentrate its resources on trying to convince Monaco to sell Camara before they cash in on the striker’s sale.

Would you rather see Newcastle spend around €60 million on Balogun or prioritize a lightning-quick move for Camara before he becomes untransferable? Share your thoughts in the comments below.