Newcastle are ready to make a move for Orkun Kokcu after the Benfica midfielder requested a transfer following a clash with head coach Bruno Lage.
Kokcu — once tipped as Benfica’s future captain — could now leave just one year after arriving for €30m. Multiple Premier League sides have been linked, but Newcastle are now in pole position to land the 24-year-old.
Benfica Want €40m – Can Newcastle Seal the Deal?
According to O Jogo, Kokcu reacted furiously to being subbed off during a Club World Cup game vs Auckland City. That moment reportedly sealed his decision to leave.
“Kokcu made his position clear after the Club World Cup – he wants out, and Newcastle are watching closely.” — O Jogo (Portugal)
Benfica are demanding €40m (£34m) for the Turkey international, and while Newcastle are preparing a formal bid, they may face pressure from Serie A and Turkish clubs.
Galatasaray, Fenerbahce, Besiktas, Roma and Inter Milan are all circling. But sources close to the player suggest his preferred destination is England.
Kokcu’s Stats Show He’s Ready for the Step Up
Despite the chaos, Kokcu had his best season yet. He was Benfica’s most productive midfielder across all competitions and added new layers to his game in the final third.
2024/25 Kokcu Season Stats
| Stat | Value |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 47 |
| Goals | 12 |
| Assists | 11 |
| Pass Accuracy | 88% |
| Key Passes Per Game | 2.1 |
The midfielder also took penalties and captained the side on multiple occasions — a signal of his influence when things were going well.
Analyst Verdict
Newcastle are short in midfield creativity, and Kokcu’s blend of leadership, vision and technical quality makes him a top-tier fit. With Benfica keen to cash in and Kokcu eager for a fresh start, this move is more than just rumour — it's a smart tactical upgrade.
Why This Transfer Makes Sense for All Parties
- Newcastle need a replacement for Sean Longstaff and want more goals from midfield.
- Kokcu wants out now, not in January — this window is key.
- Feyenoord benefit too: they will receive 25% of the capital gain Benfica make on any sale.
What’s Next?
Expect Newcastle to submit their formal bid soon. If they meet Benfica’s price, personal terms shouldn’t be an issue. Premier League competition may arrive, but Kokcu has already told his agents to prioritise a move to England.
Should Newcastle pay €40m for Kokcu — or go for someone like Javi Guerra instead?
1 Comment (last comment by JamesLove)
First read message
By JamesLove 8 Jul 2025 15:04
This guy was so good at Feyenoord in the dit h competition. Since then i haven’t followed him tbh. I’ve seen some games of Türkiye but that’s it. 40M in this market is cheap for a midfielder like him.
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