Newcastle United are considering a move for Schalke’s 20-year-old sensation Matthew Hoppe before the end of the window, although they face competition.
According to Football Insider, Newcastle United are among a host of English clubs interested in signing Matthew Hoppe from Schalke this month. The cash-strapped German club will likely sanction a move if they receive the right offer. Apart from the Magpies, Wolves and Brentford are also thought to be in the race.
Matthew Hoppe was one of the very few bright spots in Schalke’s miserable season last time out. The German outfit suffered an embarrassing demotion to the second tier and are now facing massive financial problems. Having let go of many stars in the close season, they might be losing their premier asset in Hoppe.
Hoppe broke into the Schalke’s first team this past season and scored a hat-trick against Hoffenheim in January earlier this year. The American went on to bag six goals in 22 Bundesliga appearances. However, his good form last term might earn him a move to England, with a number of Premier League clubs interested in his signing, including Everton.
Newcastle are expected to sign a striker after spending most of the summer chasing Arsenal midfielder, Joe Willock. They did sign the 21-year-old in a £25 million deal and might have enough to accommodate a striker signing within their tight budget.
Steve Bruce would be keen to sign a backup to Callum Wilson, as sometimes the former Bournemouth man can have injury niggles. Hoppe could be considered a quality backup option who can learn the trade in the Premier League and become a future first choice at the club. The Toons have many other young players coming up, and a move to Tyneside could be tempting for the USMNT ace.
However, other competitors are chasing the US star. Wolves, under new manager Bruno Lage are looking at a striker to complement or cover for Raul Jimenez and an alternative to Fabio Silva. However, Hoppe will have to make a choice based on which offer Schalke accept.
It is not clear how much the German side wants for its young talent, but considering they are relegated and strapped for cash, they might be open to a cut-price deal. Newcastle, who have held talks with Schalke with regard to his availability, look like a promising destination, and although with only around two weeks left before the market shuts, a move has to happen fast.
