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Newcastle United are ready to ‘attack’ a deal for Goncalo Ramos, but Benfica’s €80 million asking price may complicate a deal.
Newcastle United are interested in Goncalo Ramos and are ready to make a move for the striker, according to Correio de Manha via Sport Witness. The 22-year-old Manchester United target might become a strong striker option for a number of top clubs, but Benfica’s asking price could be an issue.
The striker market has yet to fully open for business during this window. Clubs have been circling, looking at various options, but none have made a firm commitment to sign a center-forward. In any case, all of those players, including Goncalo Ramos, are about to cost a lot of money.
The 22-year-old Benfica man’s stars have been shining this year. After a prolific season for his club and winning the domestic league, the forward has become a mainstay in the Portugal national squad. Manchester United have been heavily linked for a while, but his potential €80 million asking price has proved problematic for the Red Devils.
Benfica chief Rui Costa firmly believes Manchester United will pay the €80 million and sign the striker. The current asking price is visibly lower than what they demanded in January for the 22-year-old. Ramos still has a contract until 2025 with a €120 million release clause.
Benfica knows the growing interest could turn the striker’s head, resulting in him entering the final year of his deal next summer. Hence, they believe the €80 million demand is reasonable, as Newcastle United entered the chase for the centre-forward.
The Magpies are in the market for young players and have already made a mark with the signing of midfielder Sandro Tonali. They are willing to invest heavily in their squad as they return to the Champions League after nearly two decades.
Eddie Howe is set to make a bid for Ramos in the coming days, but whether they can match Benfica’s asking price remains to be seen. Newcastle are well-stocked in the centre-forward position, with Callum Wilson and Alexander Isak, implying that they will not overpay for Ramos.
The report also mentions a €60 million bid for Ramos from an undisclosed team. Newcastle might have sought to put Benfica’s determination to the test. However, the Magpies are unlikely to meet Benfica’s €80 million asking price, and they may attempt to clinch the deal for less.