Newcastle set to bid for Barcelona striker
English: Newcastle United are reportedly preparing a bid for Barcelona striker Ferran Torres. The 24-year-old spent time at Valencia and Manchester City before completing his move to Barcelona in January 2022
Despite making over 100 appearances for Barcelona, Torres struggled to get regular playing time last season, starting just 13 league games under Xavi. Torres was expected to start in Saturday’s 2-1 win over Valencia under new Barca boss Hansi Flick
However, there are no guarantees that he will be a regular starter under Flick, especially if Barcelona sign another striker. According to Football Insider, Newcastle are preparing to make an offer for Torres after identifying the Barcelona player as a potential target. The report claims that Newcastle are preparing to make an “attractive offer”, with Barcelona believed to be open to offers for the player, who is under contract until June 2027
Barcelona appear to be ready to offload some of their players in order to raise funds, as the club look to improve their financial situation so they can bring in reinforcements. However, Newcastle may face a struggle to secure Torres from Barcelona, as the player is happy at the club and is in no rush to return to the Premier League
Newcastle have strengthened their squad under manager Eddie Howe with the additions of Odysseus Vlachodimos, John Ruddy, Lewis Hall, Lloyd Kelly and William Osula, and while Osula has bolstered Howe’s options in attack, the Magpies are keen to recruit a new striker who can operate as a winger. In addition to Torres, Newcastle are keeping a close eye on Chelsea’s Noni Madueke, who could struggle to get regular playing time at Stamford Bridge this season