Newcastle United join Barcelona in race for Norway midfielder Asolf Hegland

Newcastle United are competing with Barcelona to sign Norway midfielder Asolf Hegland from Swedish club Djurgarden, according to reports.

Football Insider says Barcelona, the Spanish champions, are among the clubs interested in the 22-year-old, who has built a strong reputation during the 2026 Swedish league season.

Hegland has scored eight goals and provided 15 assists in 22 league appearances this year. His contribution has helped Djurgarden move into third place in the table.

His performances attracted interest from several clubs, including Newcastle United, during the summer transfer window. However, Hegland decided to remain with Djurgarden.

The midfielder has not ruled out leaving during the next winter transfer window. His estimated market value is about 7 million euros, while he joined Djurgarden in 2025 and has more than two years remaining on his contract.

Hegland will therefore have to assess which move would best suit the next stage of his career before the new year. Regular first-team football would not be guaranteed immediately at either Newcastle United or Barcelona.

Newcastle United already have seven first-team players capable of operating in midfield. Barcelona, meanwhile, have a group of highly regarded midfielders under Hansi Flick, including Pedri, Gavi, Fermin Lopez and Dani Olmo, as well as new signing Rodri.

Newcastle made significant changes to their midfield during the summer. The club signed Nico Gonzalez, Sean Storer and Bamba after Bruno Guimaraes and Sandro Tonali left.

Lewis Miley, Jacob Ramsey and Joe Willock are competing for starting places under new manager Matthias Jaissle. Joelinton is another option in the position, although he is currently unavailable because of injury.

Despite the number of midfield choices already at the club, Newcastle could look to strengthen the area again in 2027.