“Wilson’s MASTERPLAN Unveiled: Newcastle’s Next Joelinton Set to Be a SENSATIONAL ‘Special’ Star in Blockbuster First Signing!”

Newcastle United once again had Bruno Guimaraes to thank on Saturday, as the ever-reliable Brazilian rescued his inconsistent side from another disappointing result in the Premier League.

Without his decisive late strike, the Magpies would likely have been forced to settle for just a point against Fulham.

Guimaraes reacted quickest after a William Osula effort troubled Bernd Leno, firing home to seal a dramatic 2-1 win.

Match of the Day pundit Michael Carrick hailed the midfielder as a Newcastle “talisman” — a title he continues to justify with crucial goals and relentless energy.

However, while Guimaraes continues to shine, not everything in Newcastle’s midfield is functioning smoothly.

Joelinton, once one of the club’s most dependable performers, appears far from his best.

The £40m powerhouse, who has made 232 appearances and contributed 52 goals and assists for the Magpies, has yet to register a single goal or assist this season.

Journalist Mark Douglas recently noted the 29-year-old is “nowhere near his best,” with his struggles becoming increasingly evident.

Eddie Howe’s frustration was clear when he substituted Joelinton at half-time during the October clash against Brighton.

Against Fulham, he managed one tame shot despite winning ten duels — a reminder of his work rate but also of his fading impact.

With age no longer on his side and fellow midfielders like Joe Willock also out of form, Newcastle could soon be forced to refresh their midfield options.

Reports suggest that sporting director Ross Wilson is looking to extend Guimaraes’ contract, while also exploring new additions.

Middlesbrough’s Hayden Hackney has emerged as a leading target, with TBR Football revealing that Newcastle, alongside Tottenham, Manchester United, and Crystal Palace, are monitoring the tenacious 23-year-old ahead of a possible January move.

Hackney, described as “special” by analyst Ben Mattinson, has already made 111 Championship appearances, adding two goals and two assists this season.

Known for his energy and ball-winning ability — averaging 5.3 recoveries per game — he mirrors many of Joelinton’s best traits in his prime.

Though a move for Hackney would be a gamble, it could be the bold refresh Newcastle need to replace a fading stalwart and build a more dynamic midfield for the future.