The first of two summer transfer windows are officially open.
Newcastle United can make a head start on their summer transfer business over the next 10 days.
From today (June 1), Newcastle and their Premier League rivals are permitted to make new signings until June 10 ahead of the FIFA Club World Cup before the window reopens on June 16 and closes on September 1.
Having gone three consecutive transfer windows without making a major signing, instead resorting to selling players in order to comply with Premier League Profitability and Sustainability Rules (PSR), the Magpies head into the summer in a strong financial position.
Eddie Howe’s Newcastle United transfer wish
And United boss Eddie Howe is keen to act quickly to avoid missing out on his top targets.
“Speed is key for us,” Howe said after the final Premier League game of the season against Everton last Sunday. “And I've reiterated that many times internally. “Speed is key because we have to be dynamic.
“We have to be ready to conclude things very, very quickly because good players don't hang around for long. That's always been my thought and my message on recruitment, really, because you can have a period where you think you've got time, but then you can look around very quickly and realise that that time's elapsed and you've missed opportunities that you won't get again.
“So that's what we'll be trying but obviously, the reality of that is it's not always in your hands, but we'll be doing our best to do things early.
Paul Mitchell is leaving Newcastle United
Earlier this week, it was announced that Paul Mitchell is leaving his position as sporting director. However, he is still tipped to play a role in the early part of the window with his departure not officially happening until the end of June.
As per The Telegraph, Mitchell is determined to make at least one key signing before he steps down in four weeks’ time.
Mitchell’s departure sees Howe regain control of transfers. The Magpies’ head coach has worked closely with Mitchell and head of recruitments Steve Nickson and Andy Howe to identify targets.
Who are Newcastle United targeting?
Newcastle held talks with Ipswich Town striker Liam Delap, however the 22-year-old has opted to join Chelsea, who will now activate his £30million relegation release clause.
The Magpies are long-term admirers of Brentford star Bryan Mbeumo, who is reportedly valued at £60m. A strong interest is retained in Marc Guehi after United tried, but failed, to sign the Crystal Palace captain last summer.
As well as right winger and centre-back, Newcastle are eyeing a goalkeeper and while Burnley goalkeeper James Trafford remains the number one target, the Spanish media continue to link Espanyol goalkeeper Joan Garcia with a move to St James’ Park.
As already reported, Howe’s side have agreed to sign Malaga winger Antonio Cordero when his contract expires on June 30. He is expected to be loaned out immediately with Dutch giants Ajax said to be leading the chase.
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