The latest Newcastle United news and gossip as we take a look at the headlines generated in the last 24 hours.Newcastle United have been tipped to move for Brighton's Jan Paul van Hecke. Newcastle United have been tipped to move for Brighton’s Jan Paul van Hecke. (Image: PA)

Newcastle United will be eager to get their Premier League campaign up and running properly – after two draws and one defeat in their opening three games.

After the international break, Eddie Howe’s side take on Wolves on September 13, who are yet to register a single point and sit rock bottom of the table. Just five days later, Newcastle will kick-off their European campaign in front of their dedicated support with a thrilling clash against Catalan giants Barcelona.

Off the pitch, meanwhile, Newcastle’s hierarchy have signed players such as Anthony Elanga, Yoane Wissa, Jacob Ramsey, Malick Thiaw, Aaron Ramsdale, Antonio Cordero, and Nick Woltemade. Fans will be eager to see more of the Germany international, who has arrived from Stuttgart for a club record signing.

The transfer window reopens on New Year’s Day – and ChronicleLive has rounded up the latest headlines from St James’ Park and beyond;

Centre back ‘on the radar’

TEAMtalk understands that Newcastle are one of three Premier League clubs tipped to make a move for Brighton & Hove Albion centre-back Jan Paul van Hecke in the New Year. The Seagulls defender has two years remaining on his contract, with several major clubs reportedly monitoring his situation.

The report claims Brighton have already made ‘initial advances’ to retain him, while also noting that several sides have scouted him. Liverpool are reportedly among those clubs, having failed to sign Marc Guehi on deadline day.

Chronicle Live says: The Dutch defender brings proven Premier League experience – which would minimise the adaptation period compared to a younger or less experienced player, should Newcastle pursue him next year. At just 23, he is still developing, and has the potential to become a key figure for both the present and future of the club.

Joao Pedro transfer ‘reality’

Newcastle refused to get in a ‘bidding war’ with Chelsea when it came to Joao Pedro. ChronicleLive reported that Newcastle saw a £50million offer for the Brazil international rejected, after which Pedro told his agent that he only wanted to join Chelsea.

Speaking about his decision to move to Stamford Bridge, Pedro said: “When I was with Brighton, I was missing London a little bit. I had a chance to move to another club, but I chose Chelsea because it’s in London, it’s a big club, and I knew in my head it was the right move.

“I have come to a big club at the right time because I want to be in the Brazil squad for the World Cup. The team is young. Everyone has a long contract so we can play together for a long time. If we all know each other, we’re more likely to win titles.”

Chronicle Live says: Ultimately, some players have clear preferences about where they want to live – and which clubs they wish to represent. Newcastle, it seems, was not among Pedro’s considerations. This also illustrates that even clubs with wealthy owners, passionate fan-bases, and a team on the rise, aren’t always able to attract every player they want.

Sky Sports discounted Premier League and EFL package

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Sky has slashed the price of its Essential TV and Sky Sports bundle for the 2025/26 season, saving members £336 and offering more than 1,400 live matches across the Premier League, EFL and more.

Sky will show at least 215 live Premier League games this season, an increase of up to 100 more.

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