Newcastle United revive Abde Ezzalzouli pursuit after Victor Muñoz setback

Newcastle United have reportedly renewed their interest in Real Betis winger Abde Ezzalzouli after missing out on Victor Muñoz to Liverpool.

The Magpies have been searching for a replacement since Anthony Gordon's departure to Barcelona earlier this summer, with several wide attackers considered during the recruitment process.

After coming close to landing Muñoz before Liverpool intervened, Newcastle have now turned their attention back towards a player they have admired for several months.

However, completing a deal may prove far from straightforward.

Abde was first linked with Newcastle earlier this summer when the club began assessing options to fill the void left by Gordon's exit.

At the time, reports suggested the Morocco international would be a strong candidate for Eddie Howe's system due to his pace, direct dribbling and ability to operate across the attacking line.

Interest cooled temporarily as Newcastle focused their efforts on securing Muñoz.

Once Liverpool successfully hijacked that move, attention reportedly shifted back towards the Real Betis winger.

The 24-year-old remains highly regarded within Newcastle's recruitment department and is once again being discussed as a serious target.

Financial considerations are only part of the challenge.

Recent reports from Spain have suggested Abde is not actively seeking a move away from Betis.

The winger is reportedly happy in Seville and sees himself as an important part of Manuel Pellegrini's project.

There is also the question of sporting ambition.

Previous reports indicated the Moroccan would only seriously consider leaving Betis for what he views as a genuine elite club. Newcastle's inability to offer Champions League football next season has reportedly weakened their appeal.

That does not mean a transfer is impossible.

However, it does mean Newcastle must convince both the player and his club before any deal can progress.

Another factor working against Newcastle is Pellegrini's stance.

The experienced manager reportedly considers Abde one of the cornerstones of his attacking setup and is keen to retain him for the upcoming campaign.

Having delivered 15 goals and 13 assists across all competitions last season, the winger justified that faith with his most productive campaign to date.

Those numbers help explain why Betis have remained so firm regarding their valuation.

For Newcastle, the challenge is clear: pay a premium fee, persuade a reluctant club to sell and convince the player that St James' Park represents the right next step in his career.

Newcastle's recruitment team are expected to continue evaluating alternatives while monitoring Abde's situation. Given the complexity of the deal, the Magpies may need to decide whether the winger is worth the financial and sporting effort required.

For Real Betis, the objective remains straightforward: keep one of their most influential attackers unless an exceptional offer arrives. Unless Newcastle can significantly alter the current dynamics, this transfer appears difficult to complete despite the club's renewed interest.

Should Newcastle spend €50m-plus on Abde Ezzalzouli, or would that money be better invested in a more attainable Anthony Gordon replacement?