In recent days, Newcastle have accelerated their search for a striker to add to their attacking department, in the form of Hugo Ekitike and, more recently, Yoane Wissa.
Wissa is a cheaper alternative to Ekitike and has proven himself to be competent in the Premier League, but what will he bring to this Newcastle side if he joins?
Yoane Wissa’s Abilities
In the past season, Yoane Wissa, alongside Bryan Mbeumo, has been a talisman for Thomas Frank’s Brentford, with the pair accumulating most of the West London side’s goals and assists. The Congo international has gone under the radar somewhat, scoring 19 goals and assisting four.
Stylistically, Wissa is similar to that of Isak and Ekitike. Wissa is explosive, dynamic and has a clinical and powerful finish. Wissa is of a smaller stature in comparison to the other two strikers.
However, he is known to be a handful for Premier League defences with his constant hassling.
Wissa achieved an average match rating of 7.1 in 35 Premier League matches last season and overperformed his XG by 0.31. Wissa also overperformed his expected assists, as he was expected to accumulate 1.83 assists and accumulated four assists.
Where He May Fit In
The future of Alexander Isak at Newcastle hangs in the balance as reports suggest that Liverpool are discussing a potential bid for the player.
However, it would require a substantial fee to facilitate the player’s departure from Tyneside. Englishman Callum Wilson, who played the role of backup to Isak, has also departed Tyneside on a free this summer.
Depending on the future of Isak, this indicates that Wissa may join to take the reins from the Swedish frontman. But this may allow for a further signing as a backup to Wissa. Should Newcastle opt against promoting William Osula to second-choice striker?
Should Isak stay at the club, Wissa is more likely to become the backup to him than Ekitike. However, it is notable that this may allow Newcastle to opt for a formation with two strikers, should they feel the need to accumulate both players in the team.
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The Road Ahead
With new interest in Hugo Ekitike from Liverpool, there is a reasonable chance that Newcastle may opt for a cheaper solution in the form of Wissa.
If Wissa does prove to be the solution that is required, this will allow funds to be spent on other areas of the squad. Sean Longstaff is also reportedly set to join Leeds, freeing up more funds.
Wissa himself should approach this move positively, as he may look to leave Brentford due to the current uncertainties regarding the club’s position. He has scored 45 goals across four seasons in the Premier League and may feel that he should upgrade.
The Congolese forward will have big boots to fill should Alexander Isak depart the club.
However, he has shown that he can score frequently at the level that is required. A move would also allow him to flourish in European competition with the Magpies.
Main Photo
Credit: IMAGO / Action Plus
Recording Date: 25.05.2025