Newcastle United Eye Former PSG Star on Free Transfer Amid Competition from Manchester United, Who Hold an Upper Hand
Newcastle United Eye Former PSG Star on Free Transfer Amid Competition from Manchester United, Who Hold an Upper Hand
Newcastle United are reportedly in pursuit of former Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) star Julian Draxler, who is available on a free transfer following the expiration of his contract with the French giants. The talented German international, who has enjoyed a distinguished career in both Ligue 1 and the Bundesliga, has attracted interest from several Premier League clubs, with Manchester United also emerging as a strong contender for his signature.
Draxler, 30, left PSG this summer after six successful seasons with the club, where he won four Ligue 1 titles and numerous domestic cups. With his technical prowess, experience, and ability to operate in multiple positions across the midfield and attack, he has become one of the most sought-after free agents in the current transfer market.
Newcastle United, under the stewardship of manager Eddie Howe, are keen to add depth and quality to their squad as they aim to build on last season’s strong showing and secure a place in European competition. The Magpies have been active in the transfer market this summer, but Draxler’s availability on a free transfer presents an attractive opportunity to bring in a seasoned international player with Champions League experience.
Sources close to Newcastle confirm that the club’s director of football, Dan Ashworth, has been in discussions with Draxler’s representatives, exploring the possibility of bringing the German playmaker to St. James’ Park. Draxler’s versatility and ability to play as an attacking midfielder or winger would provide Howe with more tactical options, particularly as the team looks to balance domestic commitments with European competition.
Draxler’s skill set aligns with Newcastle’s evolving style of play, which emphasizes fluid attacking football, and his experience at the highest level of European football could be invaluable as Newcastle push for silverware and Champions League qualification.
However, Newcastle face stiff competition from Manchester United, who are also in the market for attacking reinforcements. United’s manager, Erik ten Hag, has reportedly been an admirer of Draxler’s qualities for some time and sees him as a player who could add creativity and depth to their midfield. With United also competing in the Champions League this season, they have a slight upper hand in negotiations given their stature and ability to offer top-level European football.
Manchester United’s interest in Draxler was further solidified after missing out on several key targets earlier in the transfer window. Draxler’s status as a free agent makes him an appealing option, especially considering United’s ongoing efforts to strengthen their squad without spending exorbitantly in the market. The Red Devils are currently looking for a creative midfielder to ease the load on Bruno Fernandes and provide cover for the squad’s offensive unit.
According to reports from The Athletic, United’s Director of Football, John Murtough, has already initiated talks with Draxler’s camp and is confident about securing a deal. United’s ability to offer regular first-team football in a team that is challenging on multiple fronts could be a decisive factor.
Julian Draxler has long been admired by top clubs across Europe, and his availability this summer has naturally sparked interest. Despite struggling for consistent game time at PSG, Draxler remains a high-caliber player who has proven himself at the international level, winning the FIFA Confederations Cup with Germany in 2017 and amassing over 50 caps for his national team.
A move to the Premier League would offer Draxler a fresh start and the opportunity to test himself in one of the world’s most competitive leagues. His technical skills, vision, and passing range could make him a valuable asset for any top English side. Furthermore, his experience playing alongside world-class talents such as Kylian Mbappé and Neymar could bring a level of professionalism and leadership to whichever club he joins.
Draxler has reportedly expressed interest in a move to England, and the player himself is believed to be excited by the prospect of joining either Newcastle or Manchester United. Both clubs are expected to offer competitive terms, with Draxler likely to command a lucrative contract due to his free-agent status.
As the transfer window edges toward its conclusion, both Newcastle and Manchester United will look to accelerate their efforts to secure Draxler’s signature. Newcastle, while ambitious, may have to rely on their project and their offer of more regular playing time to convince Draxler to join. Eddie Howe is said to be keen on speaking directly with the player to outline his vision for Newcastle’s future and the key role Draxler could play in that progression.
Meanwhile, Manchester United’s offer of playing in the Champions League and their established status in European football could tip the balance in their favor. However, United are also juggling other potential transfers, and the player’s decision may come down to which club can offer him the most defined role in the team.
With both clubs set to hold talks with Draxler and his representatives in the coming days, a decision is expected to be made soon. Fans of both Newcastle and Manchester United will be eager to see where the talented German will land, as his arrival could bolster their respective squads significantly.
Julian Draxler’s availability on a free transfer has made him one of the most intriguing players on the market this summer, and both Newcastle United and Manchester United are competing to secure his services. While Newcastle can offer Draxler a key role in an ambitious project, Manchester United hold an advantage with their Champions League status and the allure of playing for one of Europe’s biggest clubs. As the transfer window draws to a close, the race for Draxler’s signature could come down to the final hours.