Newcastle United tipped to lead Fikayo Tomori chase this summer
Newcastle United are in front in the race to sign AC Milan defender Fikayo Tomori this summer, according to former Everton CEO Keith Wyness. The England international’s contract runs until June 2027, and Milan are ready to sell now. Newcastle, 12th in the Premier League with 49 points from 38 games and recent form of LWDWL, are desperate to add star power after losing Anthony Gordon and Sandro Tonali.
Wyness, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, reckons Tomori would be open to a move to St James’ Park. The defender has a history with Frank Lampard, who managed him at Derby County and Chelsea, but Wyness insists Newcastle’s profile gives them the edge. “I think Newcastle are probably favourites at the moment,” he said. “Tomori certainly fancies himself above a Coventry situation. He could become a hero at Newcastle.”
Coventry City refuse to roll over in Tomori fight
Coventry City are pushing hard to bring Tomori back to the Sky Blues, where Lampard is pushing hard for a deal. The newly promoted side are 12th in the Premier League with a -2 goal difference, and Lampard’s personal link with the player keeps Coventry in the race. Wyness admits they “cannot be ruled out,” even if Newcastle hold the upper hand.
The Midlands club’s push for survival adds urgency to their bid. Tomori, 28, starred under Lampard before his move to Milan, and the Coventry boss clearly rates his qualities. “Frank is working really hard to convince Tomori,” Wyness added. “That connection still matters.”
Newcastle may need to ‘overpay’ to land Tomori, warns Wyness
Wyness warns Newcastle may need to dig deep financially to land Tomori. The Magpies have struggled in recent transfer windows, and other clubs could exploit that. “Newcastle will have to probably slightly overpay,” he said. “Their desperation to get names in shows they’re willing to meet the numbers.”
The club’s recent exits-Gordon to Tottenham and Tonali’s loan return to Milan-have left a gap in attack and midfield. Adding Tomori would bolster their defence and send a message to fans that the Saudi-led PIF ownership is serious about competing. With 53 goals scored and 55 conceded this season, Newcastle need defensive steel to climb the table.
Where next for the Tomori transfer?
The next 10 days could decide Tomori’s future. Milan’s willingness to sell and Coventry’s late push mean the race is far from over. Newcastle’s hierarchy will need to move fast if they want to land their top target before the window slams shut.
Wyness’ assessment puts Newcastle in front, but Coventry’s Lampard factor keeps the door ajar. For the Magpies, it’s a chance to sign a Premier League-ready defender who could walk into their XI. For Coventry, it’s a Hail Mary to keep a fan favourite and bolster their survival bid.
Newcastle United sit 36 points behind Arsenal in the title race, and every marquee signing counts. Tomori’s arrival would shift the narrative from exits to arrivals-and give Eddie Howe’s side a lift as they chase European spots.
