Newcastle United reignite interest in Dan Ashworth's wing prodigy reinforcement

Newcastle United's 2024/25 summer transfer window was much underwhelming, with the club failing to complete the reinforcements Eddie Howe wanted at the club. Losing on a right-footed center-back, Marc Guehi, and wing forward, Anthony Elanga, the two major requirements remained unfulfilled as they were as the Magpies headed into the new season with almost the same roster.

Newcastle United reignite interest in Dan Ashworth's wing prodigy reinforcement

However, this time, being under significant influence, Sporting Director Paul Mitchell is expected to make certain signings, with wing reinforcements as their top priority. But, given the model Mitchell has proposed, the club would want to look for scouted talents, grooming whom they can build players for the future. Not only would this help the side in PSR compliance, cutting down player signing costs, but it would also enhance their control over the player's development from the very beginning.

Considering the way Toon players Jacob Murphy and Miguel Almiron have been performing, the Magpies club certainly needs an upgrade on the two in the January window. Addressing the same, Eddie Howe's side is being reported to be monitoring18-year-old wing prodigy Roger Fernandes. As per O Jogo, the Portuguese prospect is on the target of various top clubs, such as Arsenal, Chelsea, and Atletico Madrid, and Newcastle has joined the race too.

So far this season, the promising right winger has 2 goals and an assist in 16 appearances for Braga, with his most recent goal coming in a losing cause to Porto. In fact, Portugal national team manager Roberto Martinez is keeping a close eye on the forward and is keen to have him on his side. Being termed 'special' by manager Carlos Carvalhal for his exquisite game performance at just 18 years of age, the wing forward has been attracting significant attention from European clubs all around.

However, Newcastle's interest in Roger hasn't been new, with the player being one of the distinguished transfer prospects of Dan Ashworth in 2022. But, at that time, the agreements weren't finalized, and the player has been at Braga till now. For the upcoming winter window, Roger is certainly one of the sought-after options for Paul Mitchell, but it remains to be seen whether the director succeeds in bringing in the prodigy amidst serious competition from other clubs.