Transfer News: Gabriel Barbosa Intrigued Of Team-Up With Joelinton At St. James Park

KEY POINTS

Barbosa wants to make the jump to the Premier League to help his drive to become Brazil’s starting striker
West Ham has started discussions with Barbosa, but nothing has been set in stone
The Brazilian is said to be intrigued by the possibility of joining forces with Joelinton

Gabriel Barbosa of Flamengo has options although it appears Newcastle United has an edge.

This is despite the growing interest in the Brazilian forward with Arsenal and West Ham United also monitoring Barbosa's situation.

According to The Chronicle, the 25-year-old player is intrigued with the possibility of teaming up with fellow-Brazilian Joelinton at St. James Park.

But for that deal to work, the Hammers would need to address the £30 million ($40 million) price tag that comes along with him.

Barbosa scored an impressive 29 goals in 41 games for Flamengo in the 2021 season.

With the Brazilian allegedly liking the idea of moving to Tyneside, he could be a worthy addition, especially with Callum Wilson out injured.

However, the report also added that Newcastle may want to initially take in Barbosa on loan with an option to buy later.

It was not mentioned how much the loan fee would be, and this could hinder the deal from pushing through.

After failing to make the jump to Inter Milan, Barbosa returned to Brazil and improved further.

With Wilson out and the Magpies in need of a player to spur up excitement, the Brazilian is capable of doing so.

With Joelinton showing new signs of life under the tutelage of Eddie Howe, combining with Barbosa could be something worth looking forward to.

But again, Newcastle does not have a clear path to Barbosa.

According to a report from Sky Sports, the Hammers have held talks with the prized forward.

It was also stated that the man nicknamed “Gabigol” is also impressed at how David Moyes has handled West Ham at the London Stadium.

Barbosa is believed to be wanting a move to the Premier League side, something that would help cement his place as Brazil's starting striker at this year's World Cup in Qatar. So far, he has won 17 international caps to date, scoring five times.

With West Ham making a push for a UEFA Champions League qualification, adding Barbosa could help boost their chances.

The Hammers are a point off the top four and are also eyeing a Europa League last-16 knockout tie in March.