Brentford lead Newcastle United in Bazoumana Touré transfer chase

Brentford have reportedly taken the lead in the race to sign Hoffenheim winger Bazoumana Touré, with Newcastle United still weighing up whether to formalise their interest in the highly-rated Ivory Coast international.

The 20-year-old has emerged as one of the Bundesliga's standout young attackers after an impressive first full season in Germany, attracting attention from several Premier League clubs. While Newcastle remain firmly in the picture, fresh reports suggest Brentford are the club making the strongest push to secure his signature.

Hoffenheim are expected to demand a significant fee before considering a sale.

According to Africa Foot, Brentford and Newcastle United have entered direct competition for Touré, but it is the Bees who have made the greatest progress in recent days.

Keith Andrews' side are reportedly preparing to submit a formal offer after advancing negotiations with Hoffenheim, while Newcastle have yet to make an official bid.

The Bundesliga club are understood to value the winger at around €50 million, although there is optimism a compromise could eventually be reached for a fee between €40 million and €50 million.

That valuation has not discouraged Brentford, who remain confident enough to press ahead with talks.

Newcastle continue to assess their attacking options following Anthony Gordon's departure to Barcelona earlier this summer.

The Magpies had also targeted Víctor Muñoz before Liverpool completed a deal for the young Spaniard, leaving Touré among the club's leading alternatives for the left wing.

Touré fits the profile perfectly thanks to his age, athleticism and attacking output. However, Newcastle's reluctance to submit an official offer so far suggests they are carefully assessing whether Hoffenheim's valuation represents good value in the current market.

Touré has adapted quickly since joining Hoffenheim from Swedish side Hammarby IF in February 2025.

During the 2025/26 season, he made 32 appearances, contributing five goals and 12 assists while becoming one of the Bundesliga's most exciting young wingers.

His performances have attracted interest well beyond Newcastle and Brentford.

Liverpool, Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur are all reported to be monitoring his progress, although none have advanced their interest beyond initial enquiries.

The winger remains under contract until 2029, strengthening Hoffenheim's negotiating position throughout the transfer window.

Another interesting element is his representation. Touré is managed by Unique Sports Group, the same British agency that oversaw Anthony Gordon's move away from Newcastle earlier this year. While that connection is unlikely to determine his destination, it could simplify discussions should the Magpies decide to accelerate negotiations.

Brentford are expected to decide whether to submit an official bid in the coming days, while Newcastle face an important decision over whether to increase their involvement in negotiations. Hoffenheim remain under no pressure to sell, meaning interested clubs may have to meet the Bundesliga side's valuation if they want to secure one of Europe's most promising young wingers.

Will Brentford win the race for Bazoumana Touré, or can Newcastle United still turn the transfer in their favour?