Newcastle 'in contact' over Roger Fernandes deal - Report

Newcastle United have once again been linked with a Primeira Liga talent who was tipped to arrive on Tyneside a few seasons ago.

Callum Wilson’s return to the starting line-up and Will Osula's lively display on the right last weekend has given some fresh life to attacking options over the past week, but there is no doubt we need reinforcements this summer.

A number of potential right-winger targets have been linked in recent months, from domestic options such as Bryan Mbeumo to Johan Bakayoko at PSV, but there's also been talk of a renewed bid for a teenage talent currently impressing in Portugal.

Braga winger linked again

Newcastle United have once again been linked with a move for SC Braga winger Roger Fernandes, as Portuguese newspaper O Jogo report we are one of the clubs who have been 'in contact' over a potential move. 

We were strongly linked with the 19-year-old back in 2022 and the Portuguese media claim we were one of the clubs who attempted to sign him in January.

It's believed Brentford failed with a €15m bid last month and there is plenty of interest around Europe too, with Ajax, Atletico Madrid, Borussia Dortmund and PSV Eindhoven all thought to be keen.

Fernandes has been a standout performer for the Portuguese side and has enjoyed an impressive season for Braga, scoring five and providing four assists in 40 appearances so far.

A sizeable €40m release clause exists in his current deal, although it's not clear if Braga would accept slightly less over the summer.

Project players a big part of Paul Mitchell's plan?

The link to Fernandes adds to a growing trend under Director of Football Paul Mitchell’s stewardship at Newcastle United, and he could be the latest “project player” to come through the door.

Malaga's Antonio Cordero is poised to become the latest signing to align with the philosophy we are building - developing young talents into the first team or to sell on future profit - while Vakhtang Salia and Baran Yildiz are two others who highlight the club’s intent on investing in young talent.

Howe’s development of players is superb and the club’s focus on youth development is becoming clear; not only to improve the squad, but also create a sustainable model for the club’s future is one that makes sense.

Time will tell if we pursue Fernandes, but he has been linked for some time and would follow the Mitchell blue print quite nicely if a reasonable deal could be agreed.