Wissa back in Brentford training amid Newcastle pursuit

Yoane Wissa has rejoined Brentford’s first-team training and could feature against Aston Villa this weekend, according to head coach Keith Andrews, Sport360NG reports.

The 28-year-old forward was absent from last Saturday’s Premier League opener at Nottingham Forest after training away from the squad, having expressed his desire to leave the club.

Newcastle United have seen two bids turned down for the DR Congo international, the latest worth £35m plus £5m in add-ons. That offer, tabled earlier this week, did not meet Brentford’s valuation, though talks between the clubs remain ongoing.

Wissa, who removed references to the Bees from his social media accounts earlier this week, now faces a decision on whether he will be part of Andrews’ matchday plans.

“He’s trained with the group all week,” Andrews said. “I’ll make a call on the squad on Saturday. He’s still our player, and my stance has been clear from the start – I don’t want to lose a player of his quality.”

Wissa scored 19 Premier League goals last season, form which has drawn attention from several top-flight clubs. Newcastle boss Eddie Howe is keen to bolster his squad ahead of their Champions League return, with Wissa a priority target.

Brentford have already sanctioned the £42.5m signing of Dango Ouattara from Bournemouth, while fellow striker Bryan Mbeumo departed for Manchester United earlier this summer.

Wissa was also sent home early from the club’s pre-season camp in Portugal in July after threatening not to train or play if his transfer request was ignored. He had hoped a deal with Newcastle would be completed this week, but Brentford remain determined to hold firm on their valuation.