Joao Pedro in action for Brighton in 2025 - wanted by Newcastle and Chelsea

Newcastle’s £120m transfer nightmare leaves Champions League hopes hanging

John William Last updated: Jun 27, 2025, 10:18 am
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Image: IMAGO / Every Second Media

Newcastle transfer news 2025 has taken a worrying twist after a trio of £100m+ bids for key targets Anthony Elanga, Joao Pedro and James Trafford were flatly rejected — leaving Eddie Howe’s squad rebuild under intense pressure ahead of their return to the Champions League.

According to The Times, the Magpies’ £25m offer for Burnley goalkeeper Trafford was swiftly turned down, while Brighton and Nottingham Forest also snubbed big-money approaches for Pedro and Elanga respectively. In total, Newcastle’s rejected offers are worth a staggering £120m.

Trafford, Pedro, Elanga: What Went Wrong?

Trafford Stays Put – For Now

Newcastle reignited their interest in James Trafford after nearly signing him last summer. Burnley, however, are demanding over £30m for the 22-year-old, who kept 29 clean sheets in the Championship last term.

Brighton Block Pedro Exit

Joao Pedro is firmly on Howe’s wish list, but Brighton swiftly rejected a £50m bid. With Champions League demands looming, the Brazilian forward was seen as a vital addition — but Brighton remain adamant he is not for sale.

Elanga Rebuffed Amid Forest Resolve

Forest showed no hesitation in rejecting a £45m proposal for Anthony Elanga, who scored 11 Premier League goals in 2024/25. Newcastle are expected to return with a new offer.

“There’s only so much you can do if clubs won’t play ball,” said a source close to St. James’. — Football Insider

Rejected Bids Breakdown

Player Club Newcastle Bid Status
James Trafford Burnley £25m Rejected
Joao Pedro Brighton £50m Rejected
Anthony Elanga Nottingham Forest £45m Rejected

Analyst Verdict

Newcastle’s inability to secure any of their £120m targets underlines the fragility of their transfer strategy amid PSR constraints. Despite their ambition, selling to stay compliant has eroded momentum — and without Champions League-ready reinforcements, Howe's side could be left exposed on multiple fronts.

Key Insights

  • Newcastle transfer bids worth £120m all rejected
  • Trafford remains top goalkeeper target for Howe
  • PSR still limiting Newcastle’s transfer flexibility
  • Brighton, Burnley and Forest unwilling to sell
  • Elanga and Pedro are long-standing Eddie Howe targets
  • Time running out before pre-season tour of the USA

What’s Next for Newcastle?

Newcastle are expected to return with improved offers — especially for Trafford, who remains a priority. However, unless Brighton or Forest soften their stance, the Magpies may need to explore new targets or risk heading into Europe short-handed.

Will Newcastle regret missing out on Elanga and Pedro?

1 Comment (last comment by Adem)

First read message

Adem

By Adem 27 Jun 2025 10:06

Why would you want Elanga and Joao Pedro? Similar positions init?

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