Newcastle United's Pursuit of Yoane Wissa Hits Snag as Brentford Reject £40m Bid

Brentford have rebuffed Newcastle United's latest offer of £40 million for striker Yoane Wissa, BBC Sport understands. The improved bid, consisting of an initial £35 million fee plus £5 million in performance-related add-ons, fell short of the Bees' valuation of the DR Congo international.

The rejection marks a significant hurdle in Newcastle's pursuit of Wissa, who scored 19 Premier League goals last season. The Magpies reopened negotiations with Brentford earlier this week, but the London club remain firm in their stance, unwilling to sanction the sale unless their financial demands are met.

Wissa's Desire to Move North

Wissa's desire to join Newcastle is no secret. The 28-year-old forward reportedly held discussions with Brentford owner Matthew Benham on Tuesday, a development that fuelled speculation of an imminent transfer. Further intensifying the situation, Wissa recently removed all Brentford-related content from his Instagram account, a clear indication of his eagerness to secure a move to St. James' Park.

However, Brentford's reluctance stems from their recent departures in attacking positions. The club has already lost Bryan Mbeumo to Manchester United this summer, leaving manager Thomas Frank keen to retain Wissa's services, particularly as they aim to build upon their strong Premier League showing from last season.

The Context of Newcastle's Striker Search

Newcastle's pursuit of Wissa highlights their ambition to bolster their attacking options ahead of the new season. Manager Eddie Howe is keen to add firepower to his squad as they prepare for a campaign that includes both domestic and European commitments. The club have been linked with several other forwards during the transfer window, but Wissa has emerged as a primary target.

Football finance expert Dr. Dan Plumley of Sheffield Hallam University commented, "Newcastle's pursuit of Wissa highlights the increasing financial power within the Premier League. While £40 million is a significant sum, it's becoming increasingly common for clubs to hold firm on their valuations, especially when dealing with a player who has proven Premier League pedigree and is vital to their team's success. Brentford are in a strong negotiating position, particularly after already losing Mbeumo."

Brentford's Stance and Potential Replacements

Brentford's tough stance is further solidified by their recent acquisition of Dango Ouattara from Bournemouth. Wissa reportedly believed that the arrival of Ouattara would pave the way for his departure to Newcastle. However, it appears Brentford are determined to have adequate cover before agreeing to sell their star striker.

According to football analyst Alan Shearer, "Brentford's position is understandable. They've seen first-hand the impact losing key players can have on a team. Wissa is a proven goalscorer in the Premier League, and finding a like-for-like replacement is no easy task. They need to ensure they have sufficient depth and quality in their squad before letting him go, regardless of Wissa's personal desire to move."

What Next for Wissa and Newcastle?

The rejection of Newcastle's bid leaves Wissa's future uncertain. It remains to be seen whether Newcastle will return with an improved offer that meets Brentford's valuation. Alternatively, the Magpies may turn their attention to other targets as the transfer window progresses. For Wissa, he faces a dilemma of potentially staying at a club where he feels undervalued or pushing for a move that Brentford are currently unwilling to sanction.

The situation is likely to develop rapidly in the coming days as the transfer deadline approaches. BBC Sport will continue to provide updates on this developing story.

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Brentford Premier League Newcastle United Football