Newcastle United have launched an eleventh-hour attempt to hijack Crystal Palace’s move for Manchester City wonderkid Oscar Bobb, with Eddie Howe personally driving the push for the Norwegian international.
According to a report from CaughtOffside, the Magpies have made a dramatic late entry into the race, contacting City officials just as a deal with Palace appeared to be nearing completion.
The 22-year-old winger has been heavily linked with a loan switch to Selhurst Park in recent days, but Newcastle’s intervention could change the landscape entirely. It is understood that the Tyneside club are willing to offer a more lucrative financial package, potentially including a permanent transfer fee in the region of £20million-£30million, rather than the simple loan deal proposed by Palace.
Howe’s Attack Needs a Spark
Eddie Howe is under pressure to revitalise a stalling attack that has looked "toothless" in recent weeks. With Anthony Elanga struggling to justify his £50m price tag and Miguel Almiron continually linked with a move away, the Newcastle boss views Bobb as the ideal solution to his right-wing problem.
Bobb, who famously scored a stoppage-time winner against Newcastle at St James' Park two seasons ago, is a player Howe has admired from afar ever since. His ability to operate in tight spaces and his tactical intelligence are seen as a significant upgrade on the Magpies’ current options.
The "Green Light" from City
Crucially, Manchester City are ready to do business. With the imminent arrival of Antoine Semenyo from Bournemouth for £65m, Pep Guardiola has given the "green light" for Bobb to leave to clear space in the squad.
While City initially preferred a loan to ensure Bobb’s long-term future remained at the Etihad, the opportunity to bank pure profit on an academy graduate—helping their PSR calculations—might be too good to turn down if Newcastle put cash on the table.
Palace Left in Limbo?
This development will come as a bitter blow to Crystal Palace and Oliver Glasner, who believed they were in pole position. The Eagles offered Bobb a clear pathway to starting minutes, but the allure of joining a project with Newcastle's resources—and potentially playing in front of 52,000 Geordies—may prove decisive.
What Happens Next?
Newcastle are expected to table their formal bid within the next 24 hours. If they can match City's valuation, Bobb could be travelling north for a medical by the weekend, completing a stunning hijack that would kickstart the Magpies' winter window in style.