Newcastle fans will be rather content with the way this season has gone so far in the Premier League. The Magpies have more than held their own in the league and have a good chance of finishing in a strong position.
In order to make an even bigger stride next season, here are three areas within the squad that Newcastle need to improve to push for a European place in the standings.
A New Number Nine
Newcastle spent a record fee of £40 million last summer to bring Joelinton to St James’ Park from Hoffenheim. Unfortunately, the Brazilian hasn’t quite lived up to expectations just yet.
Joelinton has scored two goals in 30 Premier League appearances. The Newcastle number nine has struggled to adapt to English football, and even though his most recent performances have been more encouraging, this is an area Newcastle have to improve on in the summer.
Steve Bruce’s men are the joint-second lowest scorers in the league. Their goal difference is more than likely going to be negative at the end of the campaign. A new number nine, therefore, should be at the very top of their shopping list when the transfer window reopens.
Attacking Midfielder/Playmaker
With talks of a potential takeover, it is no surprise that Newcastle are being linked with some of the best play makers in the world, including Philippe Coutinho.
The good news for Newcastle fans is that their team are on course for another season in the top-flight. They are now as big as 325/1 in the Premier League relegation odds. Premier League football is a must in order to attract the world’s leading stars.
Newcastle have missed an attacking midfielder who can play behind the striker for a while now. A play maker who can pull the strings in this position would really help the Magpies going forward. All the leading teams have a player who can hurt the opposition from this role, so it would be a big boost.
Left-Sided Full-Back
Danny Rose signed on loan from Tottenham in the January transfer window to help Newcastle in a position they don’t have much depth: left full-back.
Rose hasn’t been very consistent in that position since he arrived at the club, but it would be no surprise if Newcastle tried to extend his stay in the summer, with Spurs expected to let him leave on the cheap.
Full backs are very important in the modern game as Pep Guardiola has proved at Manchester City. He has spent a lot of money getting the right players for those positions over the past few years.
Newcastle have a number of options on the right side of their defence, but they will need to add a left-footed player in the summer.
Under Steve Bruce, the full-backs have not quite been as high up the pitch as other teams so it is likely they will prefer a player whose strengths are his defensive qualities.
With the addition of three quality signings ahead of next season, Newcastle fans can be excited about the club’s prospects.
