By OkayGoal
Newcastle United are keeping tabs on Roma wing-back Wesley Franca, though their interest is far less advanced than that of Premier League rivals Arsenal and Manchester United.
TEAMtalk reports the 23-year-old Brazilian has drawn attention from several English clubs since establishing himself under Gian Piero Gasperini. Wesley arrived from Flamengo in 2025 and has quickly become one of Serie A’s most intriguing young full-backs, thanks to his athleticism and ability to play on either flank.
Football Insider suggests the Magpies’ interest is currently “not that serious”. The £29.5 million summer signing of Amar Dedic has eased any urgency at right-back.
Valuation and Defensive Priorities
Roma reportedly want €50-60 million, and with Wesley contracted until 2030, they have no reason to negotiate cheaply. That is a hefty sum for a club that spent heavily in the summer.
Newcastle’s priorities may also lie elsewhere. Dan Burn and Fabian Schar are nearing the end of their contracts, while Sven Botman’s injury record remains a worry, so centre-back reinforcements could take precedence.
Our Opinion: Keep Wesley on the Radar
Newcastle’s caution is sensible. Spending around £50 million in a position they have just strengthened would be hard to justify while central defence looks more pressing.
Even so, Wesley’s versatility and age fit a long-term recruitment model. Arsenal and United have clearer needs, so Newcastle should avoid a bidding war now. Maintaining contact with Roma, however, could pay off next summer, especially if his valuation continues to climb.