Angel Gomes is reportedly Newcastle’s leading January target after his unflappable performances for England – but they could face fierce competition for his signature.
The 24-year-old former Manchester United star made his full debut in the 2-0 win over Finland on Tuesday and impressed with his composure and industriousness.
Ian Wright and Roy Keane heaped praise on Gomes – who made his bow off the bench against Ireland days before – while Lee Carsley said he ‘fully deserves’ the plaudits.
Gomes left United aged 19 in 2020 after struggling for game time and his star has risen at Lille.
Newcastle could be in a battle with Liverpool, Tottenham, and Borussia Dortmund to sign him, as per The Sun.
Newcastle have reportedly made new England star Angel Gomes their top January target
The Lille midfielder – who came through Man United’s ranks – won praise for his full debut
Eddie Howe’s side could face competition from Liverpool, Tottenham, and Borussia Dortmund
His contract with Lille expires this summer and reports have suggested he will not extend his stay at the Pierre Mauroy Stadium.
That could leave a host of clubs scrapping for the star, who is now in his fourth season as a regular at Lille following a loan spell at Portuguese clubs Boavista.
According to The Sun, Spurs were already keen on him and multiple clubs watched him at Wembley.
Carsley, who knows Gomes from managing the under-21s, explained what he is like to work with.
‘He loves football, he watches football, he’s interested in tactics, he knows all the players in any league,’ Carsley said on Tuesday.
‘If you ask him for any feedback, you need to be prepared that he’s going to give you some feedback on the session, or how we’re going to build up, or the positions.
‘He’ll often say about some build-ups he’s done with other clubs, or what he’s played against, because he’s obviously playing in France, so he sees different things. He fully deserves it (the praise).’
Gomes was classy and controlled as a midfield partner to Declan Rice against Finland and he attracted the admiration of ITV Sport’s punditry panel.
Arsenal and England legend Ian Wright (pictured) hailed Gomes’ poise against Finland
Wright said: ‘Angel Gomes. Jack [Grealish] and Trent [Alexander-Arnold] have been spoken about.
‘Seeing Gomes in that midfield, constantly on the move. His touch of the ball. He’s constantly available.
Keane added that he was ‘busy’ in the middle of the park. ‘There’s great options. There will probably be a bit of a headache for him (Carsley).’
Gomes only made 10 senior appearances at Old Trafford before deciding to leave his boyhood club after becoming frustrated at a lack of first-team opportunities.
He has since made a name for himself in France and was given a chance with England by Carsley after Gareth Southgate stepped down following the nation’s Euro 2024 final defeat against France.
