Joelinton offered to Saudi Clubs as Newcastle face fresh transfer uncertainty

Newcastle United midfielder Joelinton has reportedly been offered to several Saudi Pro League clubs, raising fresh uncertainty over his future at St James' Park.

The Brazilian has become one of Eddie Howe's most influential players since being transformed from a striker into a box-to-box midfielder following the manager's arrival in 2021.

However, reports from Saudi Arabia suggest Joelinton could now have the opportunity to leave the Premier League, with multiple clubs assessing whether to make a move.

According to Saudi journalist Khalid Al-Zahrani, Joelinton's name has been presented to the Saudi Pro League's recruitment committee before being circulated to several leading clubs.

Those clubs include Al-Hilal, Al-Nassr, Al-Ahli, Al-Ittihad and Al-Qadisiyah.

Four of those sides—Al-Hilal, Al-Nassr, Al-Ittihad and Al-Ahli—are majority owned by Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund, which also owns Newcastle United.

The report claims Al-Hilal and Al-Nassr have no interest in signing the Newcastle midfielder.

Meanwhile, Al-Ahli, Al-Ittihad and Al-Qadisiyah are still evaluating the opportunity and have yet to decide whether to pursue a transfer.

At this stage, there is no indication that any of the three clubs have submitted an offer.

Joelinton's potential departure would come at a difficult time for Newcastle.

The Magpies have already sold Sandro Tonali to Tottenham Hotspur this summer, while the club recently completed the signing of highly-rated youngster Sean Steur from Ajax.

There have also been continued reports linking Bruno Guimarães with a move to Arsenal, creating the possibility of a major overhaul in Eddie Howe's midfield before the new season.

Losing Joelinton alongside other key midfielders would represent another significant challenge for the Newcastle manager.

Despite the speculation, Newcastle are not under immediate pressure to sell.

Joelinton remains under contract until 2028, giving the club a strong negotiating position if any Saudi side decides to formalise their interest.

Transfermarkt currently values the Brazil international at around €25 million, although Newcastle would likely demand considerably more for one of their most important first-team players.

It remains to be seen whether any Saudi Pro League club decides to submit a formal offer for Joelinton. Newcastle are unlikely to welcome further disruption to their midfield, particularly after Sandro Tonali's departure, and Eddie Howe will hope to retain one of the club's most influential players unless an exceptional proposal arrives.