Newcastle, Wissa’s target destination, have signed Woltemade from Stuttgart but are still in the market for another forward
Yoane Wissa has asked Brentford to allow him to leave before the close of the transfer window, accusing the club of going back on a promise to sanction his departure if a suitable offer arrived.
In a statement posted to Instagram on Sunday, the 28-year-old forward said Brentford had “significantly changed its position” despite earlier assurances in meetings with senior management that he could move on. Wissa claims the agreement was even set down in writing.
“The commitment that I could leave this summer has not been fulfilled,” said the forward. “In the meantime, I must do what I feel is right for my career and family and insist that Brentford keep their word to let me join a new club and at a fair price.”
Newcastle United saw a £35 million bid, plus add-ons, rejected earlier this month. The Democratic Republic of Congo international, who scored 19 league goals last season, has made clear he wants the chance to pursue a new challenge, with St James’ Park understood to be his preferred destination.
Wissa has not featured under new head coach Keith Andrews this season and has been training separately from the squad.
He was also absent from Brentford’s summer training camp in Portugal after expressing his wish to leave.
Following last weekend’s win over Aston Villa, Andrews explained his omission by saying he only wanted players who were “absolutely committed”.
Brentford don’t want to sell after already losing captain Christian Norgaard, forward Bryan Mbeumo and Manager Thomas Frank this summer.
Newcastle, Wissa’s target destination, have signed Nick Woltemade from Stuttgart but are still in the market for another forward given the stance of current No 9 Alexander Isak.
Wissa warned that forcing him to stay could overshadow his four years in west London.
“Being made to stay beyond this summer will only tarnish four wonderful years at this incredible club and so l ask Brentford’s owners and directors to now keep their word to let me leave in the final hours of the window,” said Wissa.
The transfer window closes at 11 p.m. BST on Monday.
