Newcastle Transfer Latest: Joao Palhinha on Shortlist as Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg Talks Gather Pace

Newcastle’s midfield rebuild is moving into a significant phase, with Daily Mail reporting that Joao Palhinha has been added to the club’s shortlist while discussions over Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg continue to develop.

With Bruno Guimaraes and Sandro Tonali no longer in the picture, Newcastle are actively searching for experience and leadership in the centre of the pitch. Hojbjerg appears to be the most advanced option at this stage, with a fee in the region of £13 million said to be under discussion. The 31-year-old is understood to be open to the move, and there is a feeling internally that Matthias Jaissle values his tactical discipline and authority in front of the back line.

Even so, this is not yet a completed piece of business. Newcastle are keeping other routes alive and Palhinha is among the names under serious consideration. The Bayern Munich midfielder, also 31, is expected to have opportunities back in the Premier League this summer after his recent spell with Tottenham, and Newcastle’s interest reflects a clear recruitment line. They want a seasoned figure who can stabilise a youthful midfield group and help guide emerging talent.

Midfield Focus Shapes Newcastle Plans

That strategy is visible in the wider squad build. Sean Steur, 18, and Aladji Bamba, 20, represent the future, but the immediate need is for know-how and control. Sporting director Ross Wilson is driving that work, with a midfielder and a full-back the leading priorities before any further additions are signed off following Jaissle’s assessment of the squad.

It is a sensible approach. Newcastle are not simply collecting names, they are working through profile, cost and availability. Hojbjerg offers Premier League experience and reliability, while Palhinha would bring physicality, ball-winning and a strong understanding of the division. Both fit the brief, though the Marseille man currently looks the more attainable of the two.

Lewis Miley Boost as Tino Livramento Waits

There are also important updates on the injury front. Lewis Miley is expected to be available for the opening game against Liverpool after recovering from a broken leg, which is a major positive given his importance to the club’s long-term plans. Tino Livramento, however, is not expected to make that fixture as he continues his rehabilitation from the calf issue suffered on England duty at the World Cup.

The defender is progressing and a return the following weekend at Tottenham is viewed as possible. Elsewhere, movement is anticipated in the market around Joe Willock, with Besiktas interested if Newcastle’s valuation is met, while Nick Pope has been informed he can leave, amid monitoring from Ipswich and Celtic.

Our View

From a Newcastle supporter’s perspective, this report feels encouraging because it points to a club acting with purpose. Losing Bruno Guimaraes and Sandro Tonali leaves an enormous gap in quality and personality, so bringing in an experienced midfielder has to be one of the smartest moves of the summer. Hojbjerg makes a lot of sense. He is battle-tested, tactically switched on and has the sort of presence that can help younger players settle into defined roles.

Palhinha is exciting as well, probably even more so for many fans, because he has shown in the Premier League that he can dominate duels and protect a defence. If Newcastle are genuinely in that conversation, it suggests ambition remains high despite the scale of the rebuild.

The fitness update matters too. Getting Lewis Miley back for the opener would feel like a new signing in itself. He is one of the brightest talents at the club and supporters will be desperate to see him involved again. Livramento’s absence would be a blow, but if it is only short term then there is no need for panic.

Overall, this sounds like a window with clear logic behind it. Newcastle need experience, structure and a bit of edge in midfield. If one of these deals gets over the line soon, confidence around St James’ Park will rise very quickly.