Newcastle United are keen on Ansgar Knauff, although bringing the Borussia Dortmund forward could be a complicated transfer due to his current situation.
According to Sport 1, Ansgar Knauff is on Newcastle United’s radar as the Magpies continue their search for a new forward. However, signing the German Under-21 international could be a tricky affair as his contractual situation with Eintracht Frankfurt could complicate matters.
Newcastle United continue to search for options to improve their forward line. Eddie Howe has been keen to bring a competing forward for Callum Wilson but has been unable to find the right solution, while he also remains on the lookout for a wide attacker as well.
Newcastle United have baulked at some of their targets’ asking prices. For instance, they refused to meet Alexander Isak’s high valuation and wage demands. Similarly, they backed out of a move for winger Moussa Diaby, as Bayer Leverkusen demanded close to £60 million.
The Magpies’ search has now led them towards Borussia Dortmund starlet Ansgar Knauff, who remains at Eintracht Frankfurt, where he has a loan contract until 2023, after joining in January earlier this year. The eighteen-month temporary deal could create complications over a transfer, as Newcastle look to sign the 20-year-old forward.
Knauff was in good form for Frankfurt the last term, helping them win the Europa League. He finished the 2021/22 season with three goals and two assists from 19 games for the Eagles. As things stand, parent club Borussia Dortmund are not in discussions to cancel the current loan deal with their Bundesliga rivals, although a reasonable offer on the table from Newcastle could change their course of thinking.
Newcastle are over-reliant on Allan Saint-Maximin to provide the threat from the flanks. Ryan Fraser has not been at his best while Miguel Almiron lacks the end product to back up his work-rate. Hence, someone like Knauff could be a viable addition at St James’ Park.
However, Newcastle United have to negotiate with Dortmund and convince them to accept an offer and terminate the loan agreement with Eintracht Frankfurt. The Magpies could move to alternative targets if they find the pursuit of the German Under-21 international complicated.
Knauff’s market value is said to be around €10 million, but Dortmund could demand more for their talented youngster. As things stand, the forward could be open to remaining with Frankfurt for the upcoming season, although a good offer could force Dortmund to make a different decision.
