Newcastle United remain interested in Sporting CP midfielder Issa Doumbia, despite the Portuguese club holding a strong negotiating position over his future.
According to journalist Ekrem Konur, Newcastle are continuing to monitor the player after previously attempting to influence his transfer while he was at Venice. Sporting eventually won the race for Doumbia at that time, but the English club have not abandoned their interest.
Newcastle have followed Doumbia’s progress since last season and still view him as a possible target to strengthen their squad. Their earlier unsuccessful attempt to sign him has not ended their monitoring of the midfielder’s situation.
Sporting could now face increased competition, with Juventus, AS Roma and Brentford also reported to be interested in the player. The growing list of potential suitors underlines Doumbia’s appeal in the European transfer market, although there has been no formal move for him so far.
Any negotiations would be complicated by the terms of Doumbia’s contract. He is tied to Sporting CP until June 2031 and has an €80m release clause, giving the Portuguese club considerable leverage if one of his admirers decides to make a concrete approach.
That figure is significantly higher than his current market valuation, which stands at €20m. However, interest from several clubs could influence the course of any future discussions, even if Sporting have no immediate need to consider selling.
Newcastle therefore remain one of the clubs to watch in the coming months, while Juventus, AS Roma and Brentford are also tracking the midfielder. Sporting, meanwhile, are in a strong position as they seek to retain a player whose contract runs until 2031.
Doumbia’s future could become a more prominent issue during the next transfer window, but no transfer has been announced. The club’s €80m clause means any interested side would need to assess whether it is prepared to meet Sporting’s asking conditions.
Sporting CP are due to face Academica Viseu in their ninth match of the Portuguese league season.