Sky Sports pundit Paul Robinson expects a busy transfer window for Newcastle United this summer, with the arrival of ‘three quality signings’ and a number of potential exits.
The Lowdown: Newcastle’s transfer activity
After a big transfer window in January which saw the arrival of Bruno Guimaraes, Kieran Trippier, Dan Burn, Matt Targett and Chris Wood at St. James’ Park, Newcastle have turned their attention to the summer market, with the club expected to bring in a number of additions.
As quoted by Chronicle Live, Magpies boss Eddie Howe has insisted that any fresh signings this summer must “understand what it means to play for the club”.
However, numerous departures will firstly need to take place for this to occur, with Isaac Hayden, Jamal Lewis and Ciaran Clark already omitted from Newcastle’s Premier League squad list.
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The Latest: 'Work in progress...'
According to Sky Sports pundit Paul Robinson, Newcastle will be very busy in the transfer market this summer, saying they already 'will be' plotting three signings.
Speaking with Football Insider, he hailed the work already 'in progress' and revealed his summer expectations:
“I doubt we will see the influx of players that was maybe first expected when the owners came in.
“They obviously have to be wary of FFP so I think we’ll see smart signings from Newcastle. They have to shop carefully and cleverly. It is a work in progress.
“Eddie Howe did very well in January and he has proven that he can be trusted with a budget.
“They will be looking for two or three quality signings that can help them bridge the gap to the top six. I think that has to be their aim next season.
“As well as signing players they need to get rid of players. They have to get players off the wage bill. I suspect it will be a busy summer of both incomings and outgoings.”
The Verdict: Successful January window
Exactly halfway through the season, Newcastle sat in 19th place with just 11 points from 19 games, staring relegation in the face.
However, Howe’s side were evidently much improved with the signings made in January. As a result, the Magpies went on an incredible winning streak, remarkably ending the season in 11th place with a total of 49 points.
This illustrates just how well the new board and Howe performed in the transfer market, building a side who had plenty more than what it takes to stay in the Premier League.
As a result, if Newcastle are able to replicate what they did in January this summer, then the Tyneside outfit should be pushing up the top half of the table and beyond next season.
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