Yoane Wissa has publicly demanded a transfer from Brentford, citing broken promises from the club’s management. Newcastle United has shown strong interest in the striker, with multiple bids reportedly rejected. Wissa’s statement on social media expresses his frustration and desire to leave, while Brentford manager Keith Andrews previously stated that he expects Wissa to stay. The situation adds to Newcastle’s search for attacking reinforcements, alongside their pursuit of Jorgen Strand Larsen and uncertainty surrounding Alexander Isak’s future.
Yoane Wissa has publicly criticized Brentford's management, taking to social media to express his desire to leave the club. This outburst comes amidst significant interest from Newcastle United, who have reportedly had multiple offers rejected for the 28-year-old striker throughout the summer transfer window.
While Newcastle recently added Nick Woltemade to their roster, alleviating some of Eddie Howe's concerns about striking depth, the Magpies remain actively seeking another attacking option. The situation surrounding Alexander Isak's future adds another layer of complexity. Isak has reportedly refused to play for Newcastle since the midway point of pre-season, fueling speculation about a potential move to Liverpool.
Wissa's situation at Brentford mirrors Isak's in some ways, with manager Keith Andrews facing the absence of the DR Congo international. Last season, Wissa was a key player for the Bees, scoring an impressive 19 Premier League goals in 35 appearances. After Brentford's recent defeat at Sunderland, Andrews expressed his expectation that Wissa would remain with the club. However, Wissa's Instagram post on Sunday painted a dramatically different picture, accusing Brentford of reneging on previous promises.
In his statement, Wissa wrote, "Over the past few weeks, there has been increased speculation about my future at Brentford. As a result, I wanted to speak directly and honestly about exactly where things stand. I have stayed silent for much of the summer, but with just hours remaining of the transfer window, I feel compelled to make it clear that I want to leave Brentford. I believe the club are unduly standing in my way despite a series of fair offers throughout the summer."
"I have always given 100% for Brentford since the day I signed back in 2021. I am proud of what we have built together and have never taken the opportunity to play for the club for granted. Brentford fans will always have a special place in my heart. And I have always conducted myself professionally, both on and off the pitch. It has been a privilege to wear this shirt for 149 games and celebrate 49 goals."
"Earlier this summer, I held open discussions with the club’s senior management, including key directors and the new head coach. I made clear my intention to explore a new challenge. During these conversations, it was confirmed to me and my representatives that the club would not stand in my way if a reasonable offer was received. This was also put in writing."
"Based on this understanding, I sought to find a new club, keeping Brentford informed with full transparency at every step. I received a formal offer from another Premier League club and communicated I wanted to join. I was under the impression, from all my conversations with Brentford, that there was a mutual agreement to part ways. Yet as the window comes to an end, the club has now significantly changed its position, going against what was communicated. This has left me in a difficult and frustrating position. The promise that I could leave this summer has not been fulfilled. It saddens me to have to write that, and I maintain total respect for the club and its fans."
"I want to make it clear that I have not acted unprofessionally, nor do I wish to leave Brentford on bad terms. I have been transparent in my position throughout. I remain hopeful that a fair and reasonable resolution can still be found before the transfer window shuts. In the meantime, I must do what I feel is right for my career and family and insist that Brentford honour their promise to let me join a new club and at a fair price."
Wissa emphasized his gratitude to Brentford fans for their "support and understanding," but expressed concerns that remaining at the club beyond the transfer window would "tarnish four wonderful years at this incredible club." Reports suggest that Newcastle submitted a bid of £40m plus £5m in add-ons for Wissa earlier in the week.
Jorgen Strand Larsen has also been identified as a potential target for Newcastle. However, Wolves have rejected two offers for Larsen, as they are hesitant to part with the attacker late in the transfer window. Newcastle's pursuit of attacking reinforcements continues as the deadline approaches.