Phil is an experienced sports journalist, editor and content creator with more than nine years of experience in the industry.
This includes working for Football London, talkSPORT and Football Insider before returning to Give Me Sport in October 2025.
Phil is also an avid Middlesbrough fan and content creator. He runs Bonkers For Boro With Phil Spencer on YouTube, as well as hosting a weekly radio show on The Red, dedicated to Middlesbrough FC.
His first book was published in 2022, titled: “Everybody Round My House For A Parmo!” about Middlesbrough’s Carling Cup win in 2004 and the two-year adventure in the UEFA Cup under Steve McClaren.
Newcastle United are leading the chase to sign Wesley Franca from Roma, according to reports from Fichajes.
The Magpies are looking at options to strengthen as they look to move closer to the Premier League’s top four and a place in next season’s Champions League.
Currently sixth in the table, there’s work to do to close the gap and Eddie Howe will be keen to add vital quality to his ranks to ensure that they can challenge on the years to come.
As far as a move for Wesley is concerned, Newcastle face a real battle to get a deal over the line.
Newcastle In Three-Way Battle For Wesley Franca
Newcastle’s pursuit of Wesley Franca could be a difficult one to complete. As per reports from Fichajes, the Magpies are among the clubs leading the chase to sign the AS Roma star. Manchester City and Tottenham are also interested in completing a move.
Described as ‘immense’, the 22-year-old right-back has emerged as one of the best young full-backs in Europe after excelling with the Serie A side. Since joining Roma, the Brazilian has made 21 appearances, scoring three goals in the process.
As per the report, Newcastle “see the Brazilian as a very interesting player because he is a footballer with a strong presence in both penalty areas.” The report also claims that clubs are aware of his valuation increasing if he continues to improve at his current rate, with Roma also under no pressure to sell the player.
However with the club keen to strengthen their attacking options a lucrative sale could be beneficial to fund any incoming deals in the Italian capital.
Newcastle May Need Tino Livramento Replacement
Newcastle’s pursuit of Wesley Franca could be timely as they face a battle to keep hold of Tino Livramento. The right-back is under contract until 2028 but according to talkSPORT, is not keen to renew his contract at St James’ Park.
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Valued at £60million, Manchester City are considering a move for the player with Newcastle having to consider their options if he doesn’t extend.
The 23-year-old has represented the Toon 98 times, scoring once and providing three assists.
If Man City do move for Livramento, Newcastle will need to sign a top-tier replacement with Kieran Trippier, now 35, coming into the final years of his elite football career.
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