Newcastle United have shown interest in Olympiacos striker Babis Kostoulas, but ownership ties may complicate a potential transfer.
The 18-year-old forward is one of Greece’s brightest talents and has scored six goals and provided one assist in 21 league matches this season.
He also helped Olympiacos win a domestic double and reach the knockout stages of the UEFA Europa League.
Greek outlet Sport FM reports that Newcastle are preparing a “huge offer” for Kostoulas this summer.
Brighton have already made moves, with The Athletic’s David Ornstein reporting a £30 million [$40m] player-plus-cash proposal.
However, the situation remains far from simple! Olympiacos are owned by Evangelos Marinakis, who also owns Nottingham Forest, and that dual ownership could impact this move just like it did last summer, when the Magpies saw a £35 million [$47m] bid for Anthony Elanga rejected. According to Sky Sports, Forest refused to sell to a Premier League rival unless it was a “silly” offer.
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The same resistance may now apply to Kostoulas. Despite the striker being under contract until 2030, Newcastle hope to beat Brighton to his signature but must navigate the ownership and Premier League rivalry.
Kostoulas, known for his sharp movement and finishing, has drawn scouts from across Europe, and Newcastle’s strategy of recruiting emerging stars like Vakhtang Salia and Antonio Cordero makes this pursuit consistent.
Still, unless terms are reached that satisfy Olympiacos and Marinakis, Newcastle could once again be shut out.
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