Newcastle United have prioritised youth investment since the Saudi-backed takeover in October 2021.
Newcastle United scouts were reportedly in attendance as Vitoria SC beat Braga to become Portuguese League Cup champions.
Barcelona and Marseille talent spotters also watched on as Vitoria clinched a 2-1 win. As it stands, the Magpies have been quiet in the January transfer window.
Noises have ramped up in recent days due to the mini injury crisis that threatens to derail their season. Eddie Howe has just four fit first-team defenders, with Dan Burn, Emil Krafth, Tino Livramento, Jamaal Lascelles and Fabian Schar all sidelined.
PSR continues to govern Newcastle’s thinking but the possibility of arrivals has certainly increased in recent days. However, that likely has nothing to do with the scouting mission to Portugal.
Newcastle United scouts in Portugal
O Jogo claim Newcastle had officials in the stands for the Taca da Liga showpiece. This was the first final that did not feature either Benfica, Porto or Sporting Lisbon.
With an average squad age of 24.3, the Magpies were likely looking to the future rather than the present. Midfield pairing Miguel Nogueira and Diogo Sousa are just 20 and 19, with Braga’s Mario Dorgeles, 21, playing 90 minutes and breaking the deadlock.
Investing in youth talent has become a top priority for Newcastle under Saudi-backed ownership. However, Portugal has not been a happy hunting ground for English clubs in recent times, with Viktor Gyokeres and Ruben Amorim two high-profile blunders.
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Eddie Howe on Newcastle United transfers
Speaking to reporters yesterday about Newcastle’s transfer situation, Howe said: “We need to know the full extent of injuries first, then make a decision around that. Regarding transfers, everybody is fully supportive. The problem for us is PSR. I don’t think there is any issue with anyone saying we can’t do this and we can’t do that.
“It’s more about what we can do, not what we can’t do. The key thing for us to consider is business now versus business in the summer. It’s value for money now vs value for money in the summer, and signing the right player. If you sign the wrong player now you are carrying that for a three, four or five year contract.
“Are the right players available in January? So, there is a lot to discuss and a lot to consider for our short-term needs and long-term decisions for the football club.”
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