Alan Shearer names the three Newcastle United signings PIF need to make to get to the ‘next level’
Newcastle United legend Alan Shearer has offered a clear message to the club’s owners, the Public Investment Fund (PIF) of Saudi Arabia, outlining exactly what is needed to elevate the Magpies this summer. Following their dramatic qualification for the UEFA Champions League on the final day of the Premier League season, Shearer believes the club is on the cusp of a major transformation—but only if the right moves are made in the transfer market.
Turning a New Page at St James’ Park
With a return to Europe’s elite competition secured, expectations at St James’ Park are growing. Head coach Eddie Howe is reportedly targeting four significant additions to his squad as he seeks to build the depth necessary to compete on multiple fronts during the 2025/26 campaign. Last season’s Champions League run exposed the club’s lack of depth and experience, and even star midfielder Bruno Guimaraes has publicly stressed the need for reinforcements.
Echoing Guimaraes’ sentiment, Shearer made his position clear during the latest episode of The Rest Is Football podcast. The all-time Premier League top scorer and Newcastle icon emphasized that the club must invest in proven, top-tier talent—what he described as “big hitters”—if they are serious about competing with the best.
“Big Hitters” Needed to Stay Competitive
“They want to go to the next level,” Shearer explained. “If Newcastle want to consistently challenge for a top-four finish and compete for trophies, they can’t afford to stand still. They need to strengthen significantly.”
According to Shearer, Newcastle must focus on quality over quantity by bringing in at least two or three marquee signings who can immediately improve the starting XI.
“They have got to get in two or three big hitters who are going to improve the first team. If they do that, they’re not far away from genuinely challenging,” he added.
Which Positions Need Reinforcement?
Shearer didn’t just speak in generalities—he also outlined the key areas he believes Newcastle need to target. When co-host Micah Richards asked which positions require the biggest upgrades, Shearer pointed to the attack, midfield, and defence.
“Another forward, depending on who they sell or keep,” he said. “Probably a right-sided midfielder. Maybe another centre-half. If they can add that, I really don’t think they’ll be far away.”
The Budget: Can Newcastle Afford to Make These Moves?
Fortunately for Newcastle, they are in a much stronger financial position than they were this time last year. With their Profit and Sustainability Regulations (PSR) situation significantly improved—thanks to a quiet stretch across the last three transfer windows and some key departures such as Miguel Almiron and Lloyd Kelly—the Magpies have more room to manoeuvre.
Add to that the significant prize money and commercial benefits of Champions League qualification, and it’s clear that Newcastle are well-positioned to make a splash in the transfer market.
According to a report from i Paper, Newcastle could spend as much as £250 million this summer. That budget should be more than sufficient to bring in the kind of talent Shearer and Howe believe is necessary—covering the three elite signings Shearer envisions, as well as an additional player to satisfy Howe’s squad-building goals.
Will a New Striker Arrive at St James’ Park?
One area of uncertainty remains up front. While Shearer believes Alexander Isak is likely to remain at the club, the future of fellow striker Callum Wilson is less clear. The England international appeared emotional after Newcastle’s final home game of the season, sparking speculation that he may have played his last match for the club.
However, subsequent reports suggest that Wilson is currently in discussions with the club over a new performance-based contract, which would keep him at St James’ Park. Should Wilson leave, however, Newcastle already have a target in mind—young forward Liam Delap.
The club has reportedly held talks with the Manchester City striker about a £30 million move to Tyneside. Delap, still just 21, is viewed as a player with significant potential and could serve as either a replacement for Wilson or added competition for Isak.
A Defining Summer Ahead
As the summer transfer window approaches, all eyes will be on Newcastle United and their owners. With the club once again in Europe’s spotlight and boasting both ambition and financial clout, the time is ripe for bold moves. Alan Shearer’s call for “big hitters” is more than just nostalgia-driven hope—it’s a challenge to the club’s hierarchy to build a team capable of making waves both domestically and on the continent.
If PIF heed Shearer’s advice and back Eddie Howe in the market, Newcastle may not only solidify their place among England’s top clubs—they could become genuine contenders for major silverware.