Newcastle United Open Talks to Re-Sign £15m Star with Unfinished Business After Academy Exit in 2013

Newcastle United have opened discussions over a potential high-profile move for Bournemouth winger Marcus Tavernier, as manager Eddie Howe seeks to revamp his squad during the January transfer window following a challenging start to the season.

The Magpies are eager to strengthen their wide attacking options after a sluggish campaign, marked by an underwhelming goal tally.

Currently, Newcastle shares the league’s fourth-worst attacking record with Manchester United, managing just 13 goals in 12 matches—less than half of the 27 they had scored at this stage last season.

Only Southampton, Everton, and Crystal Palace have scored fewer.

According to TBR Football, Howe has identified Tavernier as a key target to address Newcastle’s offensive struggles.

The 25-year-old winger, like his elder brother James, has ties to Newcastle, having been part of the club’s academy before leaving for Middlesbrough at the Under-14 level in 2013.

At Middlesbrough, Tavernier flourished in the academy, eventually breaking into the first team under Garry Monk in 2017.

During his time at the club, he contributed 18 goals and 18 assists across 155 appearances in all competitions.

In 2022, Tavernier joined Bournemouth for a reported £10 million fee, potentially rising by another £5 million through performance-related bonuses.

Since then, he has been a crucial figure for the Cherries, tallying 10 goals and 10 assists in 71 appearances and helping the club solidify its position in the Premier League.

Tavernier’s latest goal came in a 1-1 draw against Newcastle earlier this season. Reflecting on facing his former club, he told the Shields Gazette in September 2022: “I grew up in Newcastle.

I lived there while I was at Middlesbrough, so I know a lot about the town, the club, and everything surrounding it.”

He added: “Most of my friends are Newcastle fans, so it’s a bit of mixed emotions at the moment.”

The winger’s ties to Tyneside and consistent performances make him an appealing option for Howe, who hopes Tavernier can reignite Newcastle’s attack.

However, he is not the only Bournemouth player on their radar.

Football Insider reports that Newcastle is also monitoring Antoine Semenyo as part of their recruitment strategy for the winter window.

Tavernier’s return to Newcastle could be a significant storyline, offering him an opportunity to prove himself at the club that once let him go while providing the Magpies with a much-needed creative spark.