Newcastle will contact and sign one of Europe’s best dribblers for £21 million

Newcastle United have now been in touch with the “outstanding” midfielder over a potential contract with the “outstanding” midfielder, according to the report.

Magpie chases midfielders amidst uncertainty between Tonari and Guimarès

Newcastle is on the verge of securing a return to the Champions League. Sandro Tonari is one of the most important players, and Jamie Carrager has recently praised the midfielder after naming him on the Premier League team of the season.

Speaking about the magpie, Karager said: “They actually have a bad start to the season, and I don’t think their season is for them until Eddie Howe places him (Tonari) in the retention role.

“Many times he was there, but he was an attacking midfielder and Bruno was holding.

Hau is likely very pleased with Tonari’s performance, but the Italians are now beginning to attract attention from elsewhere, with Manchester United and Manchester City being nominated as potential suitors.

With Bruno Guimaré gaining attention, Howe may be forced to revamp his midfield in the summer transfer window. And a report from Team Talc revealed that Newcastle had contact over a contract with Dinamo Zagreb’s Martin Batrina.

Batrina has many potential suitors from within the Premier League. Crystal Palace and Nottingham Forest are also enthusiastic, and the Croatian side is trying to hold around £21 million, so contracts with attacking midfielders could be relatively inexpensive.

Inter Milan is also interested in signing the 22-year-old. The 22-year-old is ready to move into the top leagues of Europe and has presented an impressive performance in his country, Croatia.

“Exceptional” Batrina may be a bargain signature

Of course, taking punts on players that have not been proven in major European leagues is always a risk, but Croatians are shown to be ready to go up to a higher level on Zagreb’s display.

The Zurich-born maestro scored six goals and 12 assists in all competitions during the 2024-25 campaign, three of which came to the Champions League.

Additionally, football scout Ben Matinson praised the Zagreb star with his “outstanding” vision and passing weight, showing regular dribbling ability over the past year, ranking in the top 1% for his take-on success by players in his position.

At just £21 million, Batrina could be a Newcastle signature this summer, but given the importance on Hau’s part, there is hope that his arrival has not sacrificed Tonari and Guimarah.