🚨 BREAKING Newcastle United finally get green light to finalise transfers as six deals can be completed soon
Eddie Howe Shifts Full Focus to Transfers as Newcastle United Enters Key Summer Window Phase
With the second phase of the summer transfer window now officially underway following its reopening on Monday morning, Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe is set to turn his full attention to recruitment as the Magpies look to strengthen their squad ahead of the 2025/26 campaign.
Last week marked a temporary pause in global transfer activity after an unprecedented early opening to the summer window, which had allowed teams to get a head start on their transfer business. This unique first phase was introduced by FIFA to accommodate clubs participating in the newly expanded 32-team Club World Cup, set to be staged in the United States. Although the early window was initially intended to benefit those clubs taking part in the tournament, FIFA permitted all clubs around the world to make signings during that time.
Now that the special early registration period has closed, business returns to a more traditional transfer window format. With normal proceedings resumed, clubs can now fully engage in their summer dealings—and for Newcastle, that means stepping up efforts to bring in fresh talent to bolster their squad depth and quality.
According to ChronicleLive, Newcastle is currently assessing multiple targets and could be preparing to act swiftly this week to secure up to six key deals. Here’s a deeper look into the players currently linked with a move to St James’ Park and what it could mean for the club.
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James Trafford – Burnley Goalkeeper
Young English shot-stopper James Trafford, currently at Burnley, is said to be firmly on Newcastle’s radar. Trafford impressed during the last Championship season, displaying the kind of composure and shot-stopping ability that many believe will translate well to the Premier League. Recent reports suggest that Newcastle have initiated preliminary talks with the England international, signaling serious interest.
Should a deal be finalized in the coming days, it would inevitably raise questions about the future of current first-choice goalkeeper Nick Pope. Pope, who has been linked with a move to newly promoted Leeds United, may reconsider a potential return to his former club Burnley if Trafford were to make the switch to Tyneside. This potential domino effect could have broader implications for Newcastle’s goalkeeping hierarchy heading into the new season.
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Marc Guehi – Crystal Palace Centre-Back
Marc Guehi has long been admired by the Newcastle hierarchy, with the club making a concerted attempt to secure his services during the previous summer transfer window. That interest has not waned, and Newcastle are once again eyeing the England international as they look to reinforce their defensive line.
One factor that may complicate any pursuit of the Crystal Palace defender is the South London club’s recent qualification for the UEFA Europa League. However, Newcastle now has the allure of Champions League football to offer, which could be a decisive factor in convincing Guehi to make the move. Eddie Howe will hope to present a compelling vision for the club’s future to sway the talented centre-back.
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Joao Pedro – Brighton and Hove Albion Striker
Another player who could be on the move this week is Brighton’s Joao Pedro. The Brazilian forward has previously held discussions with Newcastle and is believed to be eager to link up with compatriots Bruno Guimarães and Joelinton. With the Magpies confident that a deal is within reach, this signing could significantly enhance their attacking options.
Pedro’s technical skill and versatility in the final third would provide a much-needed alternative to the club’s current striker options and offer Howe greater tactical flexibility.
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Callum Wilson – Newcastle Striker
Meanwhile, the future of current Newcastle forward Callum Wilson remains uncertain. The experienced striker has been offered a contract extension by the club, but it is still unclear whether he intends to accept it. At 33 years of age, Wilson is expected to take on more of a supporting role should he remain at the club.
With first-team minutes likely to be limited, Wilson may consider a move away to ensure more consistent playing time. Leeds United have emerged as a possible destination as they aim to add experience and goal-scoring prowess to their squad in anticipation of a challenging Premier League return.
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John Ruddy – Third-Choice Goalkeeper
Veteran goalkeeper John Ruddy, who serves as Newcastle’s third-choice option, has also been offered a new deal. However, at 38, Ruddy may be contemplating a different path to end his career—possibly seeking more regular playing time elsewhere, perhaps at a lower-league club where his experience could be of greater value.
His decision may be influenced by the club’s plans for Nick Pope and James Trafford. If Trafford arrives and Pope stays, Ruddy’s opportunities could be even further diminished, potentially prompting an exit this summer.
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Harvey Elliott – Liverpool Midfielder
Speculation around Liverpool midfielder Harvey Elliott’s future is gaining traction this week, particularly with the expected arrival of German talent Florian Wirtz at Anfield. Should Wirtz’s signing be confirmed, Liverpool will likely need to trim their midfield ranks, and Elliott could be one of the players made available for transfer.
Although the U21 Euros currently occupy Elliott’s attention, Newcastle are believed to be monitoring the situation closely. While a deal might not be finalized immediately, the Magpies could move quickly to position themselves as a potential suitor, especially if Howe sees Elliott as a creative midfield option to complement his current setup.
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Conclusion
As the summer transfer window reverts to its standard operations, Eddie Howe and Newcastle United find themselves at a pivotal moment. With European competition on the horizon and squad reinforcements a priority, the club appears ready to make meaningful moves in the coming days. From experienced Premier League veterans to rising English and international talents, Newcastle’s targets reflect both ambition and a desire to continue their steady ascent in English and European football.
This week could prove critical in shaping the Magpies’ squad for the season ahead—and fans will no doubt be keeping a close eye on developments at St James’ Park.