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Newcastle United are continuing their summer squad rebuild with another major investment in youth, adding one of France’s most highly regarded midfield prospects as Eddie Howe looks to strengthen his XI ahead of the new season.
The Magpies have already moved quickly to reshape the squad following the departures of Sandro Tonali and Anthony Gordon, while Bruno Guimaraes’ future remains uncertain amid interest from Arsenal. Newcastle have now turned their attention toward another midfield addition coming from France, the same place Bruno came from at the start of the PIF ownership.
According to Sky Sports News, Newcastle have agreed a £35 million deal to sign Monaco midfielder Aladji Bamba. The France Under-20 international is set to travel to England for a medical before completing a long-term move to St James’ Park.
RMC Sport’s Fabrice Hawkins reported that the agreement is worth around €40 million, including bonuses, with Monaco giving Bamba permission to undergo his medical in Tyneside.
The 20-year-old is a product of Monaco’s academy and broke into the club’s first team during the 2025 campaign. He made 18 Ligue 1 appearances last season, including 10 starts, while also featuring five times in the Champions League.
Bamba primarily operates as a defensive midfielder but has also played in a box-to-box role. His profile fits Newcastle’s search for a younger midfielder capable of providing defensive coverage while helping progress possession from the get-go.
The France youth international is known for his tackling, ball recovery, passing range and ability to carry the ball through the midfield. He has also impressed with his composure playing under pressure despite his age and limited first-team experience.
The move continues Newcastle’s aggressive approach toward adding young talent. The club had already signed goalkeeper Ewen Jaouen, winger Bazoumana Toure and midfielder Sean Steur this summer before reaching an agreement for Bamba.
While Bamba’s arrival adds further competition in midfield, Newcastle still face major decisions over the futures of established players, with Guimaraes’ situation likely to remain one of the biggest storylines before the transfer window closes, and his potential sale set to open a spot in the midfield for Bamba to take over.
