Newcastle United are in dreamland after claiming the Carabao Cup before the international break and Eddie Howe is now set to enter the market for summer reinforcements.
Newcastle United look to build on success in the transfer market
Following their historic victory over Liverpool at Wembley, Newcastle have designs on capping the season with a trophy and Champions League qualification — a sentence that would've been inconceivable just a matter of years ago.
With the club firmly on an upward trajectory, Howe is likely to leverage their recent success by looking to pull off some ambitious deals at St James' Park. For example, Lille striker Jonathan David is on the radar in the North East amid his availability on a free transfer at the end of the campaign.
Argentina's Marcos Acuna in action with Canada's Jonathan David-1
At the other end of the field, Roma stopper Mile Slivar is a target between the sticks for Newcastle alongside Chelsea and Manchester City. Valued at £29 million, the 25-year-old has passed up the chance to extend his deal in the Italian capital despite attempts to do so from his current employers.
Understandably, there are senior players at the club that could depart on a high after several years of distinguished service. Supporters will be sad to see them go, given the part they have played in helping Howe's men compete with the Premier League elite.
Newcastle stars that could leave under freedom of contract
Jamaal Lascelles
Jamal Lewis
Fabian Schar
Callum Wilson
John Ruddy
Mark Gillespie
However, new assets are the key to elevating Newcastle's position in seasons to come. Speaking of which, the Magpies now have their eye on one of the most in-form wingers in the country.
Newcastle United in talks to sign Bournemouth's Dango Ouattara
According to Africa Foot, Newcastle have opened talks to sign Bournemouth winger Dango Ouattara, with both clubs in negotiations over the potential of a £33.4 million deal.
Aston Villa, Napoli and AC Milan are also on the case and want to bring in the Burkina Faso international. Still, the Magpies appear to be well in contention and view him as a priority signing ahead of next season.
Newcastle winger Anthony Gordon-1 Related
[As good as Gordon: Newcastle join hectic race to sign "superb" £33m winger](https://www.footballfancast.com/more-goals-than-gordon-newcastle-join-hectic-race-to-sign-dango-ouattara/ "As good as Gordon: Newcastle join hectic race to sign "superb" £33m winger")
The Magpies could make their move.
Proving to be a menace for opposition backlines, the 23-year-old has scored nine times and laid on four assists in 30 appearances this term. Despite his primary role out wide, he has also featured through the middle for Bournemouth on several occasions.
Ouattara has been commended for his "incredible" performances as a striker by Joe Partington. Versatility could be key for Newcastle moving forward, especially when considering that Alexander Isak and Anthony Gordon have spent time on the sidelines due to either injury or suspension in 2024/25.
Now, the onus is on Howe and PIF to put forward an attractive proposal to the attacker that convinces him St James' Park is the best place to continue his development.