Newcastle United have identified OGC Nice striker Evann Guessand as a potential reinforcement as the club braces for the possible departure of Alexander Isak.
With increasing uncertainty surrounding Isak’s future at St James’ Park, the Magpies are actively exploring attacking options to strengthen their front line ahead of the new Premier League season.
One of the names to emerge prominently on their radar is 24-year-old Ivorian international Evann Guessand, who enjoyed an impressive campaign in Ligue 1 last season.
According to sources close to the negotiations, Newcastle have initiated informal contact with the player’s representatives, although discussions have yet to progress to a formal stage.
Guessand’s profile has reportedly intrigued the club’s recruitment team, who are assessing the feasibility of a move should Isak’s transfer materialise.
Guessand, currently under contract with OGC Nice until June 2028, registered 13 goals and 10 assists in 42 appearances across all competitions during the 2024–25 season.
His performances not only elevated his reputation in French football but also caught the attention of several clubs across Europe, particularly in the English top flight.
Tottenham Hotspur, Wolverhampton Wanderers, West Ham United, and Burnley are all said to be monitoring the striker’s situation, with each club weighing up a potential bid.
Villarreal, meanwhile, are believed to be the most advanced in their approach, having already opened discussions with Nice over a possible transfer.
The growing competition for Guessand’s signature suggests a transfer battle may be on the horizon, particularly with the added interest from Newcastle.
The Magpies’ entry into the race could shift the dynamics significantly, especially if they decide to accelerate negotiations in the coming weeks.
Speaking recently, OGC Nice head coach Franck Haise acknowledged that Guessand’s exit appears imminent, further fuelling speculation around the player’s next move.
Haise’s comments have added urgency to the situation, with interested clubs now looking to firm up their interest before a deal is finalised elsewhere.
Guessand is currently valued at €25 million on Transfermarkt and earns an annual salary of €900,000 — figures that make him an accessible option for most Premier League clubs seeking attacking reinforcements.
Given Newcastle’s resources and the potential financial return from an Isak sale, a move for the Ivorian striker appears financially viable.
Guessand’s blend of pace, physicality, and technical ability makes him an appealing target for a league as demanding as the Premier League.
His recent form in Ligue 1 suggests he is ready to take the next step in his career, with top-tier English football offering the kind of platform that could further elevate his status.
As the transfer window progresses, all eyes will be on Newcastle and their next move. Whether Guessand emerges as the chosen successor to Alexander Isak remains to be seen, but the Magpies have clearly entered the race with serious intent. The coming weeks could prove pivotal in determining where the in-demand Ivorian forward will play his football next season.
