Newcastle United are preparing to rival Manchester United for Borussia Dortmund midfielder Felix Nmecha, who has a £73.5 million release clause, as the Magpies face losing two key midfielders this summer. Bruno Guimaraes is a target for Arsenal, while Tottenham have reportedly agreed personal terms with Sandro Tonali.
Newcastle's Midfield Rebuild
According to the Mail, Newcastle have placed Nmecha on their shortlist as a contingency plan. The 25-year-old German international has been on manager Eddie Howe's radar for several years. Nmecha is currently at the World Cup with Germany, having started all three group matches and contributed one goal and one assist.
Nmecha joined Dortmund from Wolfsburg in 2023 and signed a new contract until 2030 in March. He helped Dortmund finish second in the Bundesliga and secure Champions League football. His release clause makes him an attractive option for Premier League clubs.
Nmecha's Profile and Background
Before moving to Dortmund, Nmecha spent 14 years at Manchester City, making three first-team appearances under Pep Guardiola. His elder brother, Lukas, also came through City's academy and now plays for Leeds United. Nmecha is a box-to-box midfielder, standing at 6ft 3in, who scored six goals and registered three assists last season. He is strong in aerial duels and adept at breaking up play.
Having moved to Manchester as a child, Nmecha would likely settle back into English life. He has embraced his multicultural background, saying: "With Nigeria a lot of the culture is food, happiness, even just the business mindset, being disciplined. Then the German side is also very disciplined and has good values and morals. And then the England side, I think a lot of English people are very open when it comes to conversations, having a laugh and hard working as well."
Transfer Battle Ahead
Newcastle may need to act quickly to secure Nmecha ahead of Manchester United. The Magpies have already rejected a bid from Arsenal for Guimaraes, and Tonali is reportedly close to joining Tottenham. Nmecha's versatility and Premier League experience make him an ideal replacement. With Germany topping their World Cup group and set to face Paraguay in the round of 32, Nmecha's performances could further increase his value.
