Newcastle United sent scouts to watch FC Porto seal the league title against Alverca, but their main point of interest never made it onto the pitch.
The Magpies have been strongly linked with William Gomes in recent weeks. However, the winger remained on the bench throughout the 1-0 win, denying them a fresh live look at a player already on their radar.
That may have been a frustration. But it forced a shift in focus.
Also, according to A Bola and Record, Newcastle United were far from alone in the stands. Scouts from more than 20 foreign clubs were present, including Arsenal, Borussia Dortmund and Feyenoord, underlining the level of competition around the players on display.
Willian Gomes absent – opportunity opens elsewhere
William Gomes’ absence does not weaken Newcastle’s interest. If anything, it reinforces that their scouting process is already well advanced through previous reports and data.
This trip to the Dragão looks more like due diligence than discovery. Newcastle know the player. They simply did not get the chance to see him in this specific match context.
Instead, the situation created an opportunity. With Gomes unused, attention naturally moved to other players who could fit different needs within the squad.
Multiple profiles assessed across the pitch
Gabri Veiga was the obvious focus. The Spaniard assisted the winning goal and controlled Porto’s attacking rhythm early on. His ability to operate between lines would offer Newcastle a different dimension in midfield.
Meanwhile, goalkeeper Diogo Costa produced a strong second half, making four key saves to preserve the result. If Nick Pope’s situation is to be reassessed, his profile would naturally attract attention.
And if Newcastle consider reshaping their right-back options this summer, Alberto Costa would naturally come into the conversation. The 22-year-old showed strong defensive awareness at a key moment, including a late goal-line clearance, and consistently supported transitions down the flank.
Also, Alverca’s Davy Gui is an ‘off the radar’ option. Introduced late in the game, he added energy and unpredictability. The 19-year-old recorded 15 actions in just 12 minutes, injecting urgency into the away side’s push.
Elsewhere, Alan Varela and Rodrigo Mora impressed off the bench for Porto. Midfielder Victor Froholdt remains a name to watch despite a quieter showing.
What happens next
Willian Gomes remains a key name. His absence simply delayed a closer look. And at the same time, players like Gabri Veiga, Diogo Costa and Davy Gui offered alternative angles for recruitment.
With several clubs watching the same market, Newcastle United will now decide whether to move forward with known targets or pivot towards players who seized their chance on the night.
