Newcastle transfer news: Brazilian striker 'added' to list of possible Alexander Isak replacements

Newcastle United's pursuit of attacking reinforcements remains intense in this transfer window, and the latest name on their target list is Brazilian striker Rodrigo Muniz from Fulham. This is due to a possible 'coup' that Manchester United could pull off against the team.

According to the Daily Mail, the Magpies have made an initial inquiry for the 24-year-old player, and a possible offer in the region of £40m is being considered.

Rodrigo Muniz becomes a Newcastle target

The interest comes at a time when coach Eddie Howe sees the need for more depth in the attacking sector, especially after a series of goalless pre-season matches and the absence of Alexander Isak. Uncertainty over the Swede's future, as well as the age and injury history of Callum Wilson, reinforces the club's desire to secure a new name for the position.

Rodrigo Muniz stood out in the 2024-25 season wearing Fulham's shirt. The former Flamengo player scored 11 goals in 36 matches across all competitions, including a decisive goal against Newcastle at St. James' Park in February. Since arriving in England in 2021, the Brazilian has played 97 games and scored 26 goals, showing notable growth over the last two seasons.

His strong performances earned him the Premier League Player of the Month award in March 2024 and even a spectacular bicycle kick goal that went viral, further cementing his reputation as a technical striker with a strong presence in the box.

Despite the growing interest, Fulham is resisting a sale. Coach Marco Silva has already publicly stated that Muniz is not for sale, and the club would only consider letting him go for an 'irresistible' offer. Additionally, the Cottagers have a contract extension option, giving them greater bargaining power.

Manchester United closing in on Sesko, frustrating Newcastle

The search for a new striker intensified after failed attempts to sign Liam Delap and Hugo Ekitike, who joined Chelsea and Liverpool, respectively. More recently, the frustration has been with Benjamin Sesko of RB Leipzig, who is getting closer to a deal with Manchester United.

Newcastle have had to shift their focus and now have Yoane Wissa from Brentford and Ollie Watkins from Aston Villa on their radar, but the Brazilian is emerging as an increasingly viable alternative.

According to the Daily Mail, there have already been preliminary talks between the club and Muniz's representatives, mediated by intermediaries. Although no official offer has been made so far, these contacts indicate that the striker's name is gaining traction behind the scenes at St. James' Park.

Muniz's profile appeals to Eddie Howe

Muniz's playing style is seen as ideal for what Eddie Howe wants in a rotation striker: a strong presence in the box, the ability to play in quick transitions, and to make an immediate impact coming off the bench. With a more demanding schedule due to European competitions, Newcastle are looking for reliable alternatives to share the attacking load.

The possible £40m offer, higher than previous bids from clubs like Leeds United — who had a £32m plus bonuses offer rejected — shows that the Magpies are willing to invest heavily to secure a player who can contribute both now and in the future.

This article was originally published on T rivela.