Matthias Jaissle is at St James’ Park. Newcastle United are in discussions with Manchester City over a potential deal for midfielder Nico Gonzalez, according to The Athletic.
While talks between the two Premier League clubs remain at a preliminary stage, the 24-year-old ‘mini Rodri’ has emerged as a leading candidate in Newcastle’s search for midfield reinforcements. The Magpies are working to determine the financial framework required to negotiate a transfer for the former Barcelona and Porto midfielder, as well as his availability.
Gonzalez, who joined Manchester City from FC Porto in early 2025, boasts elite footballing pedigree. Developed through Barcelona’s famed La Masia academy, the Spaniard offers exceptional ball-carrying ability and outstanding distribution.
He has served as Rodri’s understudy for much of his time at City so far, although the Spaniard featured a lot last season due to his compatriot’s niggling injury issues.
However, despite Rodri’s departure, Gonzalez still faces an uphill task in securing regular minutes. Following the arrival of Elliot Anderson and with City still chasing further midfield additions, Newcastle believe they can lure Gonzalez away by offering him a key role at St James’ Park under new manager Matthias Jaissle.
Newcastle are considering Gonzalez alongside other primary targets as they look to make a late splurge in the window after recently announcing the arrival of Amar Dedic.
Should negotiations with Manchester City progress positively, the Magpies could move quickly to submit a formal opening offer for Gonzalez.
Newcastle have also been linked with Nicolas Seiwald and Tottenham’s Lucas Bergvall.
The former has previously played under Jaissle and represents a more feasible option than the latter, who is currently valued at over £50 million.