Newcastle now make approach to sign Baris Alper Yilmaz in Chelsea hijack

Newcastle United have now made contact to sign an in-form forward, who is also being targeted by Premier League rivals Chelsea.

Newcastle eyeing new forward ahead of crunch Champions League clash

Newcastle are gearing up for what is arguably one of the biggest games in their history on Wednesday night, as they travel to Spain to take on Barcelona at the Camp Nou, after drawing 1-1 in the first leg.

Anthony Gordon was criticised by the likes of Alan Shearer and Wayne Rooney for not being involved from the start at St. James’ Park, but the winger has since hit back, saying: “When I got to the stadium the manager told me I wasn’t playing, which I didn’t like very much, but that’s his decision and the team played well.

“Saying I didn’t want to play in the biggest game of my career is absolute nonsense. I think Rooney said I went past and didn’t shake their hands and went into the changing room. I didn’t.

“I got changed by myself in a changing room the size of this. It was just me and a sink. Complete nonsense. I think they need to do better at what they are doing.”

It remains to be seen whether Gordon is given the nod on Wednesday night, after admitting the team performed well in his absence, and the Magpies have since made an approach to sign a new winger.

According to a report from Takvim (via Sport Witness), Newcastle have now made contact with the agents of Galatasaray star Baris Alper Yilmaz, with Premier League rivals Brighton & Hove Albion and Crystal Palace taking the same course of action.

Previous reports citing Chelsea’s interest are also relayed, with BlueCo keen on signing the forward, who is valued at around €45m – €50m (£39m – £43m), this summer, but Eddie Howe’s side are now trying to hijack the move.

Scouts will be sent to watch Yilmaz in action on Wednesday night, when Galatasaray travel to Anfield to take on Liverpool in the second leg of their Champions League round of 16 tie.

Galatasaray board member Resit Omer Kukner has certainly been happy with the 25-year-old’s performances this season, saying: “I love every Galatasaray player dearly, but some are a bit more special. Barış Alper Yılmaz has done himself proud by taking the first step toward becoming the darling of the entire fanbase once again.”

It is no wonder, given how impressive the Turkey international has been on the front foot, chipping in with a whopping 24 goal contributions in all competitions.

Yilmaz could now be ready to make the step-up to the Premier League, but Howe may have a selection dilemma on the left wing if they win the race for his signature, given that Gordon plays in the same position.