It has been a difficult start to the summer transfer window for Newcastle United as they look to add reinforcements for their return to the Champions League. It hasn't been through the want of trying that Eddie Howe's efforts to add strength to his current squad has not yet come to fruition, but it appears things aren't quite falling into place.
There is reason to be positive for the Magpies with another big season looming as they look to build on their top-four qualification and establish themselves at the top table. When they return for pre-season, all eyes will be on the St James' Park stars including Alexander Isak - who has become the topic of reports surrounding proposed interest from Liverpool.
Celtic kick off the Magpies' pre-season preparations on July 19 with Arsenal and Atletico Madrid to come before their season begins on August 16 with a trip to Aston Villa.
With that being said, the Chronicle has rounded up the latest news and rumours surrounding the Magpies.
### Joao Pedro lands gut-wrenching blow as Newcastle assess transfer options
Transfer target Joao Pedro is on the verge of signing for Chelsea after the Londoners gazumped Newcastle United to his signature.
It has been said that the 23-year-old will make the move to Stamford Bridge for a fee in excess of £55million.
Reports suggest that despite interest from the North East, Pedro only had his sights set on a move to West London in a disappointing transfer blow for the Magpies.
Pedro will now push to be a part of their Club World Cup aspirations with a quarter-final date pencilled in against Brazilian side Palmeiras.
He will become the latest attacking addition at Stamford Bridge after Liam Delap from Ipswich Town, while Jamie Gittens is also on the verge of making the move from Borussia Dortmund.
**Chronicle says:** It is a devastating blow for Newcastle that they have missed out on another transfer target. With efforts to sign the likes of Dean Huijsen and Bryan Mbeumo turning down moves, Howe has been delivered gut-wrenching responses to his expressions of interest. But despite the disappointment and inevitable kick-back on social media over a failure to land a third summer target, [chiefs in the North East remain composed, the Chronicle can report.](https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/newcastle-united-chiefs-react-after-31957611)
### Dominic Calvert-Lewin could offer Newcastle bargain transfer
Dominic Calvert-Lewin was a transfer target last summer but the Everton striker didn't make the cross-Premier League switch.
But with Newcastle pushing for targets in attacking areas, the talisman might be a bargain option for the Magpies to strengthen their strike force.
And it was confirmed on Sunday that he would be leaving Everton upon the expiry of his contract after nine years on Merseyside.
"After nine remarkable years I've made the incredibly difficult decision - together with my family - to begin a new chapter in my career," he posted to Instagram.
"This isn't something I chose lightly. Everton has been my home since I was 19 years old. It's the place that saw potential in me, challenged me to grow and shaped me both as a footballer and as a man.
"I want to express my gratitude to all the managers and coaches I've worked with over the years and to my team-mates who have become life-long friends.
"The choice to move on was not simply about me, it was a decision with my family and we spent a long time considering together. We believe it's the right moment to seek a new challenge and continue growing, but that doesn't lessen the bond I'll always have with Everton.
"I'm deeply proud of what we've shared, fighting for this club when it mattered most, scoring big goals in crucial moments, wearing the shirt with commitment and pride. My hope is that I leave with your respect, knowing I always sought to uphold the values of this great club."
**Chronicle Live says**: Calvert-Lewin could be an astute piece of business if Newcastle are looking to replenish the squad and spend their funds in different areas. There is Premier League experience there and with reports that Pedro will leave for more than £55million, the acquisition of the 28-year-old is £50m still in Newcastle's coffers. However, the drawbacks are the goalscoring returns from the striker and in part, his recurring injury issues have hampered him kicking on at Everton and getting the move that his form once promised.