Newcastle United star Joelinton has emerged as a target for the Saudi Pro League, and a deal could be sanctioned, according to TEAMtalk.

The Brazil international joined the Magpies as a centre-forward in a £40m deal from Hoffenheim back in 2019, but went on a disastrous goal drought which saw his future plunged into doubt. However, Eddie Howe’s arrival saw him turned into an all-action central midfield player, and he has thrived in that role ever since.

That skillset has seen him become a target for clubs in the Middle East in recent times, and it has now emerged that the SPL are ready to make another move to take him away from St James’ Park.

Saudi Clubs Eyeing Joelinton Deal in January

Joelinton, who is one of the club’s top earners on £187,000-a-week, has been a regular in the side over the years and has become a fan-favorite for his aggressive and passionate style of play.

This current campaign hasn’t been the strongest for Joelinton though, with Bruno Guimaraes and Sandro Tonali both shining ahead of him. That has sparked some criticism that he could be past his best, and it has now emerged that powerful clubs in Saudi Arabia have made checks on the possibility of a January deal.

Howe is said to be reticent about any exit mid-season, but the 29-year-old was a target last summer, and it’s believed that Saudi clubs made some inroads about a deal, with Newcastle-owned PIF keen to take the player to Saudi.

One way that a deal could be sanctioned is if the club owners promised to recycle the cash on one or two new faces for the squad, which could ease Howe’s doubts about any deal taking place, especially with Lewis Miley, Jacob Ramsey and Joe Willock already being in the squad as ready-made replacements.

Time for Newcastle to Cash In on Joelinton

While Joelinton is a fan favourite at St James’ Park, there is always a realisation that players eventually begin to decline, and it seems that the Brazilian is heading down that path.

He has looked lethargic this season, not been as effective in duels and it seems as though Newcastle are beginning to evolve beyond the need for him in midfield, with better technicians and more forwards available to the manager.

A big-money move from Saudi could be the perfect remedy for Newcastle to get the player off their books for a healthy fee, which will help to justify it with the fans, while also helping them to replace him and other problem areas in the squad.

With a contract until 2028, it may be the perfect time to pull the trigger on a deal, while his stock is still high and cash in for maximum value.