Newcastle United have registered an interest in Bundesliga star Kai Havertz, reports the sports editor of German newspaper BILD.
They are not the only ones, with Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester United, Real Madrid and Bayern Munich all keen.
Newcastle stand out though. They are the only club without any European football on offer this season, or next.
The interest comes amid a proposed takeover which would make Newcastle the richest club in England.
Realistically, even with big money offers, Havertz will not be signing for Newcastle. He would be better off staying put in sporting terms at Bayer Leverkusen, and there is strong interest from other European clubs.
But what Newcastle’s interest does do, is it sends a message. ‘We are coming to join you at the top’.
Newcastle are not there now, and it may take a few seasons, but they are determined already, to explore their options.
One or two of these big deals may come off. Havertz is just too ambitious.
The interest from Newcastle is the club trying to position themselves among Europe’s elite.
The more Newcastle become involved in discussions like these, the more normal it becomes.
And then players won’t be so surprised when the opportunity to sign with them emerges.
Newcastle are an attractive club with a strong infrastructure and loyal fanbase. All that has been missing in recent times is ambition.
Results and world class signings won’t come overnight, but they may get there eventually.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
