Newcastle United are close to signing Aston Villa midfielder Jacob Ramsey in a deal believed to be worth around £40m. The clubs have reached an agreement in principle, with only the final details to be finalised. Ramsey is expected to complete the formalities, including a medical, for his move to St James' Park.
Aston Villa host Newcastle in their first Premier League game on Saturday at 12:30 BST. Ramsey, a former England Under-21 international, has scored 17 goals in 167 appearances for Villa since making his debut in 2019 and was a regular for Unai Emery's side last season.
In addition to Ramsey, Newcastle have also signed winger Anthony Elanga from Nottingham Forest and defender Malick Thiaw from AC Milan on permanent deals in the summer. The Swede will be a much-needed addition to Howe's squad as the club face another challenging season, given the intensity of the Premier League and UEFA Champions League. Elanga scored six goals and provided 6 assists for Nottingham Forest last season.
England goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale also joined the Magpies on a season-long loan from Southampton earlier this month. Ramsdale has Premier League experience, having played for Arsenal. However, it remains to be seen whether the Englishman will be able to secure a regular place in Newcastle's goal. Jacob Ramsey, on the other hand, is expected to be a regular in Howe's side.
