Following a quiet start to the summer transfer window for Newcastle United, it feels like things are finally beginning to ramp up.
Eddie Howe called for quick action but for a period faced one disappointment after another. Liam Delap, Mathias Cunha, Dean Huijsen and Joao Pedro were targets but all opted to move elsewhere.
Meanwhile, Bryan Mbeumo was wanted but his wage demands soon priced Newcastle out of a move, with the Brentford star set to join Manchester United.
With Newcastle’s recent struggles with Premier League Profitability and Sustainability Rules (PSR) well documented, it’s been almost two years since a major signing was made. But it seems there is light at the end of the tunnel.
The Magpies are understood to be close to reaching a £55million agreement to sign Nottingham Forest winger Anthony Elanga while talks are advanced with Burnley for goalkeeper James Trafford.
Completing those two signings and ideally another means Newcastle’s starting XI could look a little different for their Premier League opener against Aston Villa on Saturday, August 16.
Trafford was set to sign for Newcastle last year but the deal was pulled when Nottingham Forest demanded Odysseas Vlachodimos as part of the PSR swindle that took Elliot Anderson to the City Ground.
1. GK: James Trafford
Trafford was set to sign for Newcastle last year but the deal was pulled when Nottingham Forest demanded Odysseas Vlachodimos as part of the PSR swindle that took Elliot Anderson to the City Ground. | Getty Images
Fabrizio Romano continues to drum up Manchester City’s interest in Livramento but the 22-year-old is going nowhere. Too important and, even by Man City’s standards, too expensive.
2. RB: Tino Livramento
Fabrizio Romano continues to drum up Manchester City’s interest in Livramento but the 22-year-old is going nowhere. Too important and, even by Man City’s standards, too expensive. | Getty Images
Newcastle are reportedly exploring a £35million deal for the Marseille captain. The 26-year-old Argentine has made 167 appearances for the French outfit.
3. CB: Leonardo Balerdi
Newcastle are reportedly exploring a £35million deal for the Marseille captain. The 26-year-old Argentine has made 167 appearances for the French outfit. | AFP via Getty Images
Botman was instrumental during his first season at St James’ Park but the last two have been dominated by knee issues. If Botman can put those troubles behind him then there’s no doubt he walks into Howe’s best XI.
4. CB: Sven Botman
Botman was instrumental during his first season at St James’ Park but the last two have been dominated by knee issues. If Botman can put those troubles behind him then there’s no doubt he walks into Howe’s best XI. | Getty Images