Opinion: Three reasons why Newcastle should be proud of their summer transfer window

A turbulent and often frustrating summer transfer window has finally drawn to a close for Newcastle United, bringing with it a mix of challenges, disappointments, and cautious optimism. What began as a chaotic period filled with uncertainty has ended with reasons for the Toon Army to feel reassured about the direction of the club.

No one would deny that this window has been one of the most complicated since PIF’s takeover. Mistakes were made, targets slipped away, and the departure of Alexander Isak threatened to overshadow everything. Yet, despite those setbacks, Newcastle emerged with six senior signings—an impressive haul considering they operated without a sporting director or a permanent CEO to oversee negotiations. For the club’s hierarchy, that achievement alone is a sign of progress and resilience.

Even the painful exit of Isak, while difficult to digest in the short term, could prove to be a blessing in disguise. His record sale has injected significant funds into the club’s coffers, giving Newcastle the flexibility to strengthen further down the line. It’s a long-term play that may set the stage for even bigger moves in 2025.

With all that in mind, here are three key reasons Newcastle fans can look back at this summer with a degree of optimism.

1. Strengthening in Key Positions

For all the talk of departures, Newcastle did manage to address vital areas of the squad. The headline arrival is Yoane Wissa, who brings with him a proven Premier League goal record. Scoring 19 times for Brentford last season—without the benefit of penalties—Wissa looks set to deliver the cutting edge Newcastle feared they might lose with Isak’s departure.

Alongside him, Nick Woltemade represents an investment in the future. Still only 22, the German striker has been touted as one of Europe’s most exciting young forwards. While it would be unfair to expect either player to replicate Isak’s 23 league goals on their own, the hope is that together they can share the burden and keep Newcastle competitive at the top end of the table.

Elsewhere, the squad has been bolstered in key departments. Jacob Ramsey’s arrival offers depth and energy in midfield, while Malick Thiaw strengthens the back line with his physical presence and tactical intelligence. Anthony Elanga adds pace and versatility to the attack, and the capture of Aaron Ramsdale provides competition and quality in goal. All in all, these signings leave Eddie Howe with a far deeper and more balanced squad than he had last season.

2. Holding On to Sandro Tonali and Tino Livramento

Equally important as the signings Newcastle made are the players they managed to keep. Throughout the summer, speculation swirled around Sandro Tonali and Tino Livramento, with both attracting interest from top European clubs. Tonali was heavily linked with a return to Serie A, while Manchester City were rumoured to be circling for Livramento.

Losing either of them—on top of Isak—would have been disastrous for Howe’s plans. Yet Newcastle stood firm. Not only did they keep hold of both, but they are also moving quickly to secure their futures. Talks are already underway to extend Tonali’s contract, while active discussions with Livramento suggest the club is determined to ward off further interest.

By protecting two of their brightest young assets, Newcastle have shown ambition and stability, sending a clear message that they are not willing to be pushed around in the market.

3. Room to Invest in January

Perhaps the most exciting aspect of Newcastle’s current position is the financial flexibility they now enjoy. The record-breaking sale of Isak means the club enters the season with a strengthened squad and the capacity to spend again in January.

Eddie Howe has rarely been given the chance to make a statement signing mid-season—Anthony Gordon in January 2023 being the last example. But with the club’s net spend leaving plenty of room to manoeuvre under Financial Fair Play, Newcastle could go into the winter market with intent.

While the January window is notoriously tricky for value, simply having the funds available is a huge boost. If Newcastle are in the mix for Champions League qualification or pushing deep into domestic competitions, the ability to add one or two more quality players could prove decisive.

Final Thoughts

In the end, Newcastle’s summer cannot be described as perfect. Losing Alexander Isak was a gut punch, and the club endured some messy moments along the way. But judged as a whole, the transfer window delivered six smart acquisitions, preserved two vital stars, and left the door wide open for more investment in January.

For supporters, that is more than enough reason to hold onto optimism. The chaos of the past few months has not derailed the project—it may, in fact, have strengthened it.