Newcastle United made another scouting trip to Portugal this week, with club representatives in attendance for FC Porto’s 0-0 draw against Sporting in the Taça de Portugal semi-final second leg.
Sporting arrived with an advantage and played accordingly. Porto responded with pressure and volume. The home side shot 18 times, while Sporting managed only three shots. In the end, the Lisbon club made their 1-0 lead from the first leg count and got their ticket to the final.
A Bola reported Newcastle United among the clubs present. The list of players on show explains the interest.
William Gomes remains central to Newcastle thinking
William Gomes continues to be one of the clearest links to Newcastle United. The Magpies have already made an offer for the winger, and this match offered another close look.
He was Porto’s main outlet in wide areas. Gomes attacked defenders repeatedly and looked comfortable taking risks in one-on-one situations. His final ball was inconsistent, but the intent and ability to create imbalance were there. In a team pushing forward for most of the match, he remained involved throughout.
That profile fits Newcastle’s need for direct attacking depth, especially with a focus on adding pace and unpredictability in wide roles. If Anthony Gordon leaves in the sumer, he would be a smart successor.
Defensive targets and physical profiles on display
Ousmane Diomande is another name firmly on Newcastle United’s radar. The centre-back, also tracked by several Premier League sides, showed why he attracts attention.
He stood out for his physical presence and ability to carry the ball out from the back. In a match where Sporting spent long periods defending, Diomande still found moments to break lines and impose himself in duels.
Young right-back Eduardo Quaresma also delivered a composed performance. He handled defensive duties well and adapted to a game that demanded concentration and discipline. He may not have been the headline name, but his reliability would not go unnoticed.
Midfield and goalkeeper options considered
Gabri Veiga offered a different profile in midfield. The 23-year-old maestro helped Porto progress play through central areas and showed a mix of strength and technical ability. For Newcastle, who continue to look for balance in midfield, that combination remains valuable.
Diogo Costa had a quieter night in terms of saves, but still showed his quality. Late in the match, he reacted quickly to deny a chance and often acted as a sweeper when Porto pushed forward. His consistency over recent seasons keeps him in the conversation for clubs seeking long-term options in goal.
Pietuszewski also grew into the game after the break. The highly-rated winger became more active in attacking phases and showed awareness in his movement, even if he did not produce a decisive moment.
Absence of Fresneda shifts attention elsewhere
Ivan Fresneda, recently linked with Newcastle, was not involved due to injury. His absence likely shifted the focus towards other defensive options on the pitch.
That may have added weight to performances from players like Diomande and Quaresma, who were able to show their qualities in a demanding setting.
The nature of the match helped. Porto’s attacking push and Sporting’s defensive resistance created different types of pressure. For scouts, that kind of environment often reveals more than a comfortable win ever could.
Portugal remains a market Newcastle trust, and this visit reinforced why.