Newcastle United will be looking to lift the Premier League crown next season if they get the summer transfer window nailed.
That's the view of Sky Sports pundit Alan Smith, who thinks Eddie Howe and the Magpies could be a real threat at the top end of the table. The claim comes ahead of Newcastle's trip to Arsenal on Sunday, which could determine who finishes second this season.
Newcastle are two points behind Arsenal, who are aiming to finish as runners-up behind Liverpool. While the Magpies have yet to clinch Champions League qualification, they know that victory at the Emirates this weekend would propel them above the Gunners.
Smith, a former Arsenal and England striker who now co-commentates for Sky, feels that the momentum Newcastle have off the back of the Carabao Cup triumph is strong. He also believes they could challenge for the championship with the right signings this summer.
Asked about Newcastle's ambitions under PIF, he told [bestbettingsites.co.uk](https://www.bestbettingsites.co.uk/news/football/alan-smith-fa-cup-final-predictions/): "It’s an interesting one. You want to secure your place now. You want to become a Champions League side and continually finish in that top four, top five.
"So that’s the first port of call because they did it and then dropped out, didn’t they? Which was a disappointment.
"With some acquisitions, they might feel, well, we can have a little go at this. So much depends on Liverpool, City and Arsenal. They are below those levels at the moment, no question.
"But the momentum up at Newcastle is such a big thing. And they’ve got it at the moment.
"It’s a heck of a task to win the title next year. But they’ll be aiming, they’ll be looking up rather than down. But another Champions League finish would be the first port of call."
Newcastle are determined to have a strong summer window when it comes to first team recruitment. While they have gone three windows without adding a first team starter to Eddie Howe's squad, this upcoming period will see them target at least three high-class players, plus a striker who can provide cover and competition for Alexander Isak.
With PSR issues not a concern this time around, it also means United have a strong hand when it comes to keeping hold of their best players, including Bruno Guimaraes, Sandro Tonali and Isak. Those three, plus Joelinton, Anthony Gordon, Sven Botman, Lewis Hall and Tino Livramento will provide the core of United's starting XI next season, with the additions bolstering the quality on show.