da heads bet： PIF are now tracking an impressive Serie A defender, who Newcastle United chiefs “appreciate”, according to recent reports.

Howe admits he's not "supportive" of Carabao Cup rule change

da dobrowin： As if facing Manchester City across two legs for the chance to reach the final isn’t difficult enough, a rule change in the Carabao Cup is set to allow Antoine Semnyo to play for Pep Guardiola’s side. This is despite the fact that he played for Bournemouth earlier in the competition.

In previous years, the winger would have been forced to miss out on what is a crucial tie, but the new EFL rule 6.4 now allows players to represent two clubs in the competition each season.

Having discovered the rule ahead of Newcastle’s meeting with Man City, Eddie Howe told reporters: “Yeah, it was nice to find out that rule had changed after finding out they’d signed him.

“I have to say that’s one rule change I probably wouldn’t be supportive of at this current moment. But Antoine’s had an incredible season. I’m a big admirer of his and he scored on his debut, so fair play to him. I think Man City have signed a very, very good player.”

It’s the type of big-money business that Newcastle would benefit from completing this month. The Magpies have plenty of unfinished business from a late summer shopping spree and have already set their sights on the likes of Wesley Franca, according to recent reports.

What’s more, other potential summer targets such as Tiago Gabriel are now also emerging. According to TeamTalk’s Rudy Galetti, PIF are now tracking Gabriel and Newcastle chiefs “appreciate” the young Lecce centre-back ahead of the summer transfer window.

"Strong" Gabriel could form partnership with Thiaw

Newcastle deserve praise for welcoming Malick Thiaw in the summer. He has been one of their most successful signings in recent years and is set to lead their backline for years to come. But first he needs a long-term partner.

Newcastle chasing move for £69m-rated "powerhouse" who could surpass Barnes

Newcastle United could win an even bigger talent than Harvey Barnes.

ByKelan Sarson

On paper, the Magpies would love that to be Sven Botman. The Dutchman is certainly talented enough and is at the peak of his powers at 26 years old. Yet, they can no longer ignore his extensive injury history.

Subscribe to the newsletter for transfer intel Want deeper transfer context? Subscribe to our newsletter for focused coverage and analysis of transfer targets, scouting updates and club strategy—clearer context to understand who’s being tracked and why.

By subscribing, you agree to receive newsletter and marketing emails, and accept Valnet’s Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe anytime.

They would also love for it to be Fabian Schar or Dan Burn, but both are almost in their mid-30s. Neither are long-term options. So, that opens the door for 21-year-old Gabriel to potentially come swooping in.

Described as a “strong ball-playing” centre-back by Como scout Ben Mattinson, Gabriel ticks plenty of boxes for those at St James’ Park, not least because he stands at a staggering 6’5. If Newcastle are searching for Thiaw’s partner, they may have just found him.