Newcastle linked with move for young Bundesliga starlet

According to Sky Sports Germany reports Newcastle holds a solid interest in signing the Leipzig Star-man Dominik Szoboszlai.

Only 22 years old and in his second full season for Red Bull Leipzig, the young Hungarian midfielder has racked up 14 goal contributions in 31 Bundesliga games (6G, 8A), and fits the recruitment profile Newcastle desire – young, hungry, and a great creator, with Magpies wanting to add creative quality and depth to the midfield, as well as belatedly replacing Shelvey after he left for Nottingham Forest in the January window.

LEIPZIG, GERMANY – MAY 14: Dominik Szoboszlai of RB Leipzig competes for the ball with Anthony Jung of SV Werder Bremen during the Bundesliga match between RB Leipzig and SV Werder Bremen at Red Bull Arena on May 14, 2023 in Leipzig, Germany. (Photo by Oliver Hardt/Getty Images) /

From the Newcastle perspective, he would offer more versatility being able to play in attacking midfield, and on the wing, with a good work rate off the ball. He would seamlessly fit into Eddie Howe’s system at Newcastle considering the similar pressing style implemented by Marco Rose at RB Leipzig.

At such a tender age, Szoboszlai is an experienced Hungarian international and has also captained the National Team, illustrating the maturity and leadership characteristics he holds. These are attributes that Howe considers important when picking players to add to his squad, as was the blueprint for the first transfer window under the new ownership.

A summer move looks increasingly on the cards considering Newcastle’s desire to strengthen and in preparation for their Champions League campaign after they sealed their place against Leicester.

Furthermore, as has been outlined by CaughtOffside, the Hungarian International has expressed his desire to keep his options open to be ready for the next step in his career – green-lighting Newcastle’s interest in him.

BUDAPEST, HUNGARY – MARCH 23: Dominik Szoboszlai of Hungary reacts during the International Friendly match between Hungary and Estonia at Puskas Arena on March 23, 2023 in Budapest, Hungary. (Photo by Laszlo Szirtesi/Getty Images) /

Despite all these positive signs, and with Sky Sports Germany correspondent Hinze reporting that dialogue has taken place between the Magpies and Szoboszlai’s representatives, the price tag is very hefty – estimated to be 70 million euros, and it remains to be seen whether Newcastle would pay so much considering their other creative midfield target Maddison is available, and possibly for a cheaper fee.

The addition of Szoboszlai would go far in helping the Magpies elevate the “star quality” and depth in the squad, which will be required to continue the club’s upward trajectory and to compete in the next season’s Champion’s League.