Newcastle United Are Not Interested In Signing 26-Year-Old Midfielder: Is It A Good Decision?

Newcastle United have changed their fortune in recent seasons. After a return to elite football and a measured rebuild, the team has not only settled in the top half of the table but has also stepped onto the European stage. Eddie Howe has fostered a quality squad, with direct football, high pressing and a cohesion that reflects daily work.

Although the last few months have shown ups and downs, the Magpies remain committed to their plan. The management does not act on impulse, but with judgement. Not every player that comes on the market fits in with their roadmap.

Every transfer window generates noise, illusions and smoke. For weeks, several media outlets linked Matteo Guendouzi with a return to England. The Frenchman, with a past at Arsenal, has been linked with both Newcastle United and Aston Villa. At the same time, Lazio were trying to keep hold of him, while new suitors were emerging. Everything seemed to point to a possible Premier League deal.

Guendouzi is not in Newcastle United plans

According to Football Insider, Newcastle United never had any serious intention of signing Guendouzi. Despite the rumours, the club do not see the Frenchman as a priority. Sunderland, on the other hand, seem determined to go all-in for the 26-year-old midfielder. The newly-promoted side are looking for standout performers to make a difference on their return to the Premier League, and the former Arsenal man fits that profile.

Newcastle United believe they already have enough options in their midfield. The management prioritises profiles that bring something different to what they already have. Conor Gallagher, for example, is more in line with this logic. The Englishman has the pace, quality and the work ethic to play a part in the Magpies’ midfield. Guendouzi, despite his quality and character, does not represent a clear leap forward. Moreover, his past disciplinary problems do not work in his favour. Eddie Howe values group balance more than individual flashes.

A logical decision at a key moment

Newcastle United were right not to make a move for Guendouzi. Their current situation calls for sensible decisions, not name-driven signings. The Frenchman is intense and is good with the ball at his foot, but his record is not convincing. At Arsenal and Marseille, he had some brilliant moments, but also some controversial episodes and drops in performance. That is what Eddie Howe is most concerned about: stability.

With players like Bruno Guimarães, Joelinton, or the young Lewis Miley, the club already has a solid base in the middle. Guendouzi does not add anything to change the picture. Moreover, his price and salary do not fit with a club that takes care of every expense under PSR rules. Newcastle United have other priorities; maybe a versatile attacker or a right-footed centre-back would add more to the current project. That is why this refusal is not a loss, but it is a sign of maturity and focus. The focus is on Europe, but without losing control of their squad and system.