Waiting for a striker: Newcastle give 40 million for a midfielder

During the still ongoing transfer window, Newcastle had to watch Benjamin Šeško and Hugo Ekitike slip off its radar, strikers who chose other destinations. But when the opportunity arose to sign Jacob Ramsey, the Magpies didn’t hesitate for a moment. The deal with Aston Villa was wrapped up quickly, and the 24-year-old midfielder joined Newcastle in a transfer worth £39 million pounds fixed, plus another four million in potential bonuses. The English midfielder signed a five-year contract and will continue wearing the number 41 shirt, the same one he had at Villa. This is Newcastle’s fourth signing so far after Anthony Elanga (bought from Nottingham Forest for 63 million euros), Malick Thiaw (bought from Milan for 40 million), and Aaron Ramsdale (on loan from Southampton).

Jacob Ramsey is a Birmingham native who had been with Aston Villa since the age of six. Now, at 25, he will experience playing for another club for the first time. The main reason was Aston Villa’s problems with PSR and UEFA’s financial regulations so Ramsey’s sell (which wasn’t Unai Emery’s wish) along with Leon Bailey’s transfer will balance the books. The former England U21 midfielder was sought by other clubs but he informed the Magpies through his agent that he wants to come to St. James Park, which was the reason why this deal happened so quickly.

“I’m delighted to be here. The last two or three nights have been crazy, but I can’t wait to get started. When I found out the manager wanted to sign me, there was no hesitation—his work with young players is impressive. It’s always been tough playing against Newcastle, they’re quick, energetic, with passionate fans. I believe I’ll fit in perfectly” said Ramsey upon signing.

Newcastle manager Eddie Howe emphasized that Ramsey fits exactly the player profile he wants in the squad:

“Jacob is a fantastic signing. He’s young and eager to improve, but already has huge Premier League experience. His directness in attack and versatility give us an extra dimension. We believe he’ll be a massive asset for us” said Newcastle boss.

Newcastle shop new defender in Italy

For Newcastle, this is another sign of ambition to remain among the Premier League’s elite and to build a team capable of competing on the European stage. After qualifying for the Champions League and making significant investments, the St. James’ Park club continues to mix the purchase of proven Premier League players with further development potential—a philosophy that has delivered results since Eddie Howe took over. It now seems only a matter of days before Joane Wissa signs, and in the event of Alexander Isak’s departure, another striker would arrive, with Goncalo Ramos and Samu Omorodion the most mentioned names so far.

ENGLISH PREMIER LEAGUE - MATCHDAY 1

Friday

Liverpool - Bournemouth 4-2 (1-0)

/Ekitike 37, Gakpo 49, Chiesa 88, Salah 90+4 - Semenyo 64,76/

Saturday

Aston Villa - Newcastle 0-0

Brighton - Fulham 1-1 (0-0)

/O'Riley 55 pen - Muniz 90+6/

Sunderland - West Ham 3-0 (0-0)

/Mayenda 61, Ballard 73, Isidor 90+2/

Tottenham - Burnley 3-0 (1-0)

/Richarlison 10,60 Johnson 66/

Wolverhampton - Manchester City 0-4 (0-2)

/Haaland 34,61 Reijnders 37, Cherki 81/

Sunday

Chelsea - Crystal Palace 0-0

Nott.Forest - Brentford 3-1 (3-0)

/Wood 5, 45+2, Ndoye 42 - Thiago 78(p)

Man.Utd. - Arsenal (0-1)

/Calafiori 13/

Monday

22.00: (2.50) Leeds (3.25) Everton (2.90)

***odds are subject to change***