Newcastle hold talks to sign “lethal” ex-Middlesbrough star, who shares an agent with Gonzalez.

Newcastle United have reportedly opened discussions over a possible January move for a striker described as “lethal” in the penalty area, as the Magpies consider adding more firepower to their attack.

The Premier League side have endured some frustrating moments in front of goal this season, with concerns over their attacking output becoming increasingly noticeable. A recent 2-0 home defeat against Aston Villa highlighted those issues and prompted criticism from former Newcastle defender Warren Barton.

Barton was particularly concerned by Newcastle’s inability to create clear opportunities, pointing to their failure to register enough shots on target. He also questioned the team’s attacking threat after seeing them struggle to find solutions against a strong Villa side.

Newcastle need more goals

Yoane Wissa has been the main striker for much of the campaign, but the experienced forward has struggled to consistently produce in front of goal.

The 30-year-old has managed only one goal in eight Premier League appearances, leaving Newcastle searching for greater attacking consistency. His lack of goals has increased the pressure on the club to consider alternatives as they look towards the January transfer window.

William Osula was handed an opportunity to lead the line during Newcastle’s recent trip to the Hill Dickinson Stadium. However, the young striker was unable to make a significant impact during the match.

Newcastle eventually suffered a 3-1 defeat, a result which confirmed their elimination from the EFL Cup. Osula was replaced by Wissa at half-time after failing to register a single shot on target.

His overall record since arriving at St James’ Park also suggests that Newcastle could benefit from bringing another striker into the squad.

Osula made 14 Premier League appearances during the 2024-25 season and scored once. His numbers improved considerably the following campaign, when he found the net seven times in 24 league appearances. This season, however, he has scored once in four Premier League matches.

While there have been positive signs, Newcastle may still feel that they need a more proven goalscorer to strengthen their options.

Balogun emerges as January target

According to TEAMtalk, Newcastle have now held discussions about potentially signing AS Monaco striker Folarin Balogun during the winter transfer window.

The American forward remains on Monaco’s books after a proposed move to Everton collapsed on transfer deadline day during the summer. Despite that failed transfer, Balogun could still return to English football, with his representatives reportedly making contact with several Premier League clubs.

Manchester United, Leeds United and Nottingham Forest are among the sides said to have been approached regarding the striker.

Monaco are reportedly willing to listen to offers for Balogun in January, despite the fact that he played an important role for the French club last season. Across 43 appearances in all competitions, the striker contributed 24 goals and assists, underlining his importance to the team.

For Newcastle, his availability could provide an opportunity to add a forward capable of bringing greater attacking threat.

Former Middlesbrough star praised

Balogun is no stranger to English football, having previously spent time with Middlesbrough, and his performances have earned plenty of praise.

Fox Sports analyst Alexi Lalas has described the striker as “lethal in the box”, highlighting his ability to make the most of opportunities around the penalty area.

His international record also demonstrates his importance at the highest level. Balogun has established himself as a regular member of the United States national team and has earned 31 caps, scoring 12 goals during that time.

That experience could make him an attractive proposition for Newcastle as they look to improve their attacking options.

The Magpies have already shown that they are willing to invest heavily in their squad, and adding another striker could become a priority if their current forwards continue struggling for consistency.

Agent connection could help

Another interesting factor surrounding the potential transfer is Balogun’s representation. The Monaco striker shares the same agent as Newcastle attacker Nico Gonzalez, which could potentially make discussions between the parties more straightforward.

Newcastle’s attacking numbers explain why they may be considering a move. Wissa has scored only four times in 39 appearances since arriving from Brentford, a return that has not matched expectations.

Although injuries and opportunities have played a role, Newcastle will need greater production from their forwards if they want to compete strongly across multiple competitions.

Balogun could therefore represent an intriguing solution. He has experience in English football, has performed at international level and enjoyed a productive campaign with Monaco last season.

The January window could give Newcastle the opportunity to address an obvious weakness before the second half of the season begins.

If the club can agree suitable terms with Monaco, Balogun could provide the pace, movement and finishing ability needed to give Newcastle’s attack another dimension.

For now, talks are reportedly at an early stage, but the interest underlines Newcastle’s determination to find a more reliable source of goals.

With Wissa struggling to find the net consistently and Osula still developing, bringing in a proven forward could prove to be one of the club’s most important decisions when the January transfer window opens.