Joelinton’s story at Newcastle United is a remarkable turnaround, now facing a potential new chapter in Saudi Arabia. Once a struggling forward signed for a hefty fee, his future at St. James’ Park appeared bleak, with many predicting a swift exit before he could ever find his footing.
The Brazilian arrived in 2019 from Hoffenheim with a £40 million price tag, but goals proved elusive and confidence plummeted. He seemed lost in a system that didn’t suit him, a shadow of the player Newcastle had hoped to acquire.
Everything changed with the arrival of Eddie Howe. In a stroke of tactical brilliance, Howe reimagined Joelinton’s role, shifting him from a misfiring striker to a dynamic, box-to-box midfielder.
This transformation unlocked a new level of performance, revitalizing both Joelinton and Newcastle’s midfield. He became a crucial component of a team on the rise, a testament to Howe’s vision and the player’s adaptability.
However, this season has presented new challenges. The emergence of Bruno Guimaraes and Sandro Tonali has subtly diminished Joelinton’s influence, with competition for places intensifying.
Injuries and inconsistent form have further hampered his impact, and at 29, there are signs of physical decline after years of demanding performances. This shift in circumstances has coincided with renewed interest from clubs in the Saudi Pro League.
Saudi clubs were already monitoring Joelinton last summer, initiating preliminary discussions about a potential move. The interest hasn’t faded, and exploratory conversations are reportedly ongoing as the January transfer window approaches.
Newcastle’s ownership structure, with its ties to the region through the Public Investment Fund, could potentially facilitate a smoother negotiation. The possibility of a deal is very real.
While Howe is understandably reluctant to lose a trusted player mid-season, the club must also consider long-term squad planning and financial stability. A significant transfer fee could provide crucial funds for squad improvements.
Newcastle would ideally prefer to retain Joelinton until the end of the season, but the persistent and substantial interest from Saudi Arabia presents a complex dilemma. The club faces a difficult decision balancing sporting ambitions with financial realities.
