Newcastle United had a difficult summer transfer window with some big names leaving the club alongside Eddie Howe.
The Magpies made several transfers as Matthias Jaissle arrived at St James’ Park but have endured a difficult season so far. Many fans have questioned the club recruitment and reports have surfaced over players also feeling that recruitment is the biggest reason behind the club’s early-season struggles.
As per a report by TeamTalk, Newcastle United are among several clubs interested in signing Spain World Cup winner and Atletico Madrid midfielder Alex Baena in the January transfer window.
The 25-year-old has attracted interest from several Premier League clubs in recent months following his impressive performances for Atletico and Spain. Newcastle were among the sides monitoring his situation towards the end of the summer transfer window as well but a move never materialized.
Newcastle face competition for Alex Baena
Alex Baena has become an important figure at Atletico Madrid since joining from Villarreal in the summer of 2025. His performances have attracted attention from some of Europe’s biggest clubs, with his career stats standing at 92 goals and assists in 253 appearances.
The Spain international has also made a strong start to the current campaign, recording five goals and four assists in 14 appearances across all competitions.
Matthias Jaissle remains interested in bringing more attacking additions to Newcastle in January, particularly a no. 10 who is missing from the team. He has relied heavily on attacking formations involving a no.10, yet it is a major missing in his squad. Alez Baena has the quality to fill that gap. Baena potentially offers another option in the final third as evident from his impressive World Cup campaign with Spain as well.
However, convincing Atletico to part ways with the midfielder will not be straightforward.
Atletico demand huge fee for Newcastle target
Atletico Madrid paid €45 million to sign Alex Baena from Villarreal in 2025 and handed him a contract running until 2030.
Diego Simeone considers the Spaniard a key member of his squad, and Atletico are unlikely to entertain any offer unless it is a massive fee.
The Spanish club reportedly values Baena at a minimum of €80 million (£67m), putting him beyond the reach of an ordinary transfer bid. With almost four years remaining in his contract, Atletico hold a strong negotiating position and have little reason to sell.
Newcastle will have to consider whether they are prepared to make such a significant investment, but Baena could be an attractive addition for Jaissle but a January deal looks difficult at the moment.
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