Newcastle United’s summer transfer window has been frustrating so far, with key targets slipping away. Hugo Ekitike joined Liverpool and James Trafford moved to Manchester City, leaving Eddie Howe scrambling for reinforcements.
While Aaron Ramsdale has arrived on loan and Anthony Elanga has signed from Nottingham Forest, the departure of Callum Wilson means Newcastle are short on strikers. That problem could become even bigger if **Alexander Isak**, heavily pursued by Liverpool, leaves St. James’ Park.
#### **Striker Search Intensifies**
Isak has missed Newcastle’s pre-season tour of Asia, forcing Howe to use Anthony Gordon and William Osula up front. Results have been poor: defeats to **Celtic, Arsenal, and the K-League All Stars**, plus a draw with Spurs, highlight the urgent need for firepower.
Newcastle have long been linked with **Benjamin Šeško**, but now face losing him to Manchester United. As a result, the club has turned its attention to **Gonçalo Ramos of PSG**, according to Craig Hope (Daily Mail).
#### **Ramos vs Šeško – The Numbers**
* **Gonçalo Ramos (PSG)**
* 33 goals, 8 assists in 86 appearances over two seasons
* 9 goals in 16 games for Portugal
* Won six domestic trophies + Champions League
* Only **33 starts** for PSG but still a strong scoring record
* **Key Stats (per 90 – League 2024/25)**
* Ramos beats Šeško in **shots on target, goals, assists**
* Outperforms in pressing stats:
* Tackles won: **0.51 vs 0.11**
* Possession won in final third: **0.68 vs 0.38**
Šeško is two years younger and the focal point at Leipzig, which partly explains the interest. However, Ramos’ superior data and experience in a top team make him a compelling alternative—likely at a lower cost, which matters as Newcastle prepare for the Champions League and still need reinforcements elsewhere.
