Newcastle United are reportedly prepared to make a significant investment in highly-rated midfielder Aleksandar Stankovic, with the Club Brugge star emerging as a serious summer target for Eddie Howe’s side.
The Serbian international has enjoyed a breakthrough campaign in Belgium and is attracting growing interest across Europe following a series of impressive performances in both domestic competition and the Champions League.
While Arsenal have previously been linked with the 20-year-old, reports in Italy suggest Newcastle have advanced further in their interest and could be willing to offer up to €40 million to secure his signature.
A key meeting has already taken place between the player and Inter Milan, who continue to hold important control over his future.
Inter Milan weighing up Stankovic decision
Stankovic is currently assessing his options after returning to Milan for discussions regarding his long-term future.
The midfielder's visit reportedly included fitness assessments as well as talks with Inter officials over plans for next season.
Inter possess a buyback clause that allows them to bring Stankovic back from Club Brugge this summer, while a similar option remains available in 2027.
However, the situation is far from straightforward.
The Italian champions are expected to retain experienced midfielder Henrikh Mkhitaryan, which could limit opportunities for Stankovic in the first-team squad.
That uncertainty has opened the door for interested clubs, with Newcastle now firmly in the conversation.
Newcastle monitoring one of Europe's rising midfielders
Stankovic's development at Club Brugge has been one of the success stories of the season.
The midfielder featured in 55 matches across all competitions and consistently demonstrated maturity beyond his years.
His performances in the Champions League were particularly eye-catching, helping establish him as one of the most sought-after young midfielders currently outside Europe's traditional elite clubs.
Having followed Newcastle's recruitment strategy under Eddie Howe, the club have increasingly targeted players with both immediate quality and long-term upside. Stankovic appears to fit that profile perfectly.
However, a move would still represent a significant financial commitment.
Aleksandar Stankovic’s impressive 2025/26 campaign
The Serbian contributed regularly at both ends of the pitch while playing a major role in Club Brugge’s season.
| Stat (2025/26) | Aleksandar Stankovic |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 55 |
| Goals | 8 |
| Assists | 6 |
| Champions League Goals | 2 |
| Champions League Assists | 2 |
Source: Competition data – 29 May 2026
Those numbers underline why clubs across Europe are paying close attention to his progress.
His blend of technical quality, energy and tactical intelligence has made him one of the most exciting young midfielders in Belgium.
Key points
- Newcastle United are prepared to pay up to €40m for Aleksandar Stankovic
- Inter Milan recently held discussions with the midfielder
- The Italian club possess a buyback option
- Stankovic contributed 14 goals and assists in 55 appearances
- Newcastle appear further advanced than Arsenal in the race
What’s next?
Inter Milan are expected to make a final decision on whether to activate their buyback clause in the coming weeks.
If the Italian giants conclude that regular first-team opportunities cannot be guaranteed, a permanent sale could become increasingly likely.
Newcastle remain one of the clubs best positioned to take advantage of that scenario, although Brentford have also been credited with interest.
The player's own ambitions may ultimately prove decisive as he weighs the prospect of fighting for a place at Inter against securing a prominent role elsewhere.
Would Aleksandar Stankovic be worth Newcastle United making a €40 million gamble on this summer?
0 Comments
First read message
Leave a comment
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *