Newcastle United have recently found their names in the frame for 20-year-old Mainz winger Brajan Gruda.
The German U21 international is among several candidates for Newcastle’s right-wing position, as Miguel Almiron is expected to leave this summer.
Brajan Gruda has recently emerged as a potential target, with Bild in Germany (via Sport Witness) suggesting that negotiations might intensify and progress rapidly.
Both Newcastle and Aston Villa were identified in the report as possible contenders for securing his signature.
Brajan Gruda ticks a lot of boxes for Newcastle
Last season, Gruda featured in 29 matches for Mainz, scoring four goals and providing three assists. Though primarily a central attacking midfielder, he also played several games on the right wing and a few as a center-forward.
He seems to fit Eddie Howe’s criteria in terms of age and versatility, but his goal contribution numbers could be improved.
This concern is heightened by the fact that Mainz is expected to demand €50 million (£42 million) for his transfer this summer.
At £42million we expect Newcastle to pass
Mainz director Christian Heidel has stated that it would require a “truly exceptional offer” for them to consider negotiations. With Bayern Munich, Bayer Leverkusen, RB Leipzig, Borussia Dortmund, and VfB Stuttgart competing with Newcastle and Aston Villa, an intense bidding war might fulfill this requirement.
However, at £42 million, it’s unlikely that Newcastle will pursue him, as he remains an unproven talent and a risk the club isn’t prepared to take at this stage.
Additionally, given the interest from numerous top German clubs, it’s probable he would prefer to stay in his home country for now.
