BBC journalist reveals Tottenham are ‘moving’ to beat Newcastle to ‘open’ Premier League forward

Tottenham Hotspur have taken a decisive step in the race to sign Brentford forward Yoane Wissa, as BBC journalist Sami Mokbel reports the North London club have officially begun their pursuit of the Congo international.

This development poses a direct challenge to Newcastle United, who have also been monitoring the versatile attacker as they look to reinforce their forward line this summer.

Spurs’ interest in Wissa follows their managerial appointment of Thomas Frank, Brentford’s former head coach. After replacing Ange Postecoglou following a disappointing 17th-place finish in the Premier League—despite a Europa League triumph—Tottenham seem determined to revamp their attacking department by targeting players who thrived under Frank’s tutelage.

Earlier reports linked Spurs with a potential move for Bryan Mbeumo, another of Brentford’s key assets, and now Wissa has entered the frame as a serious target.

Mokbel’s update, posted on X, confirms that Tottenham are evaluating the financial implications of a deal for Wissa, who is reportedly open to making the switch.

The 28-year-old had an impressive campaign last season, registering 19 goals and four assists in the Premier League, showcasing a blend of clinical finishing, positional intelligence, and the versatility to play centrally or out wide.

That kind of output makes him an attractive prospect for top-flight clubs aiming to add depth and goals to their attacking arsenal.

Newcastle, who are actively seeking to strengthen their attacking options following the departure of Callum Wilson, have also been in the conversation for Wissa.

Manager Eddie Howe faces the task of finding a capable backup—or even a rotation partner—for star striker Alexander Isak. According to reports from Craig Hope in the Daily Mail, Wissa is one of the names who has been discussed within the Newcastle recruitment team in recent weeks, alongside Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins.

Hope’s insights suggest that while both Wissa and Watkins are admired within St James’ Park, their respective ages—Wissa at 28 and Watkins at 29—mean any significant investment would carry limited resale value.

That financial consideration plays heavily in Newcastle’s decision-making process, as the club continues to build a sustainable model underpinned by smart recruitment and long-term planning.

Watkins, already an England international, may also hesitate to join a club where he would sit behind Isak in the pecking order, especially with the World Cup looming.

Still, the opportunity to work under a manager like Eddie Howe, the promise of UEFA Champions League football, and the volume of games next season could prove persuasive to a player like Wissa.

His ability to operate both as a central striker and on either flank offers Newcastle valuable tactical flexibility, a trait Howe has prioritized in his recent signings.

Behind the scenes, Brentford maintain a composed stance regarding the futures of Wissa and Mbeumo. Speaking to BBC Sport, the club’s director of football, Phil Giles, acknowledged the calibre of interest but expressed confidence in Brentford’s position.

He emphasized that while clubs around the world may consider the pair for their attacking needs, Brentford do not feel pressured to sell.

Giles recounted the club’s strategic approach in past seasons, referencing the transfer of Ollie Watkins, who was developed as a striker and eventually sold during the COVID-impacted window to raise necessary funds.

However, with Brentford now comfortably established in the Premier League, that financial pressure no longer exists. Giles noted that keeping key players like Wissa and Mbeumo is entirely feasible and that new contracts remain a possibility.

In the end, the battle for Wissa’s signature may come down to more than just finances. Both Tottenham and Newcastle can offer European football and strong project narratives, but Spurs hold a distinct advantage through Frank’s relationship with the player.

Wissa’s openness to a move could accelerate discussions, and while Newcastle remain admirers, they will need to act decisively if they hope to secure a player with proven Premier League output and tactical flexibility.

As both clubs weigh their options, the outcome of this chase could significantly shape the attacking blueprint for either side heading into the 2025/26 campaign.