“BEST OF DEALS”- “Newcastle on brink of triple transfer boost as Premier League gets underway
Newcastle United have kicked off the new Premier League season in a significantly more favorable position than many would have predicted just a few months ago. The mood at St. James’ Park earlier this summer was one of apprehension and uncertainty, largely due to widespread speculation linking key players like Anthony Gordon, Bruno Guimarães, and Alexander Isak with imminent departures.
As the new campaign approaches, it’s a notable turn of events that all three of these crucial players remain at the club. This unexpected stability represents a major boost for Eddie Howe, who is now tasked with guiding Newcastle through a season with ambitions firmly set on European qualification.
Prior to the European Championship, rumors were rife about Newcastle engaging in preliminary negotiations with Liverpool over a potential transfer for Anthony Gordon. Similarly, Bruno Guimarães had a hefty £100 million release clause in his contract, which, thankfully for Newcastle, was not activated before it expired. Isak, too, was a subject of intense speculation, with Arsenal reportedly interested in the striker as part of their search for an elite No. 9.
At the time, Newcastle was grappling with the need to raise funds to comply with the Premier League’s Profit and Sustainability Regulations (PSR). This financial necessity put additional pressure on the club, as they needed to ensure they met these stringent requirements to avoid potential penalties.
Nevertheless, Newcastle managed to overcome this hurdle with a series of shrewd business decisions. The sales of Elliot Anderson to Nottingham Forest and Yankuba Minteh to Brighton were key moves, as they provided the necessary financial relief and helped Newcastle comfortably meet their PSR obligations. This financial maneuvering meant there was no urgent need to sell Gordon, Guimarães, or Isak, allowing Eddie Howe to retain his most influential players.
With this financial stability secured, Howe was able to focus on strengthening his squad for the new season. In a series of strategic acquisitions, Newcastle have enhanced their roster significantly. The permanent signing of Lewis Hall from Chelsea for £28 million is a particularly notable move. The 19-year-old, who was previously on loan at Newcastle, is expected to play a more substantial role in the team this season. Additionally, Lloyd Kelly was brought in from Bournemouth, offering valuable competition and depth in both the centre-back and left-back positions.
Newcastle also fortified their goalkeeping department by signing Odysseas Vlachodimos from Nottingham Forest. The experienced John Ruddy was added to further bolster their shot-stopping capabilities. Furthermore, a £9 million investment was made in Will Osula, a former Sheffield United striker, signaling a commitment to strengthening their attacking options.
Despite these acquisitions, there is still room for further enhancement of the squad. Newcastle have made three bids for Marc Guehi, only to have each one rejected by Crystal Palace, who have set Guehi’s valuation at £65 million. With Guehi’s contract at Palace entering its final two years, there is a strong possibility that this transfer window represents Palace’s best chance to secure a significant fee for the player. Newcastle are exploring alternative centre-back options but may yet make another attempt to bring Guehi to St. James’ Park.
In summary, even if Newcastle do not secure Guehi’s services, the team is heading into the new season in a markedly stronger position compared to the previous year. With Gordon, Guimarães, and Isak ready to spearhead the squad’s efforts, Newcastle United are well-positioned to pursue their goal of securing a place in European competitions. The club’s strategic moves in the transfer market and the retention of key players mark a promising start to their season, setting the stage for what could be a highly successful campaign.
