It’s been a summer of mixed emotions on Tyneside following the conclusion of the 2019/2020 season.
Steve Bruce’s men finished the season in 13th place, avoiding the dreaded drop to the Championship by a comfortable margin, considering the low expectations of the fans at the beginning of the season following the departure of honorary Geordie Rafa Benitez.
The disappointment of Newcastle fans was palpable however, following the announcement of the Saudi backed consortium pulling out of their proposed takeover of the club. The cash-rich group led by businesswoman Amanda Staveley looked certain to end the reign of less-than popular owner Mike Ashley, and the £300 million bid brought the promise of truly world-class players gracing the turf at St James’s Park. The announcement that the deal had fallen through was understandably gutting for many fans.
Still though, life moves on, and preparations for next season must continue. Looking ahead to next season, the Magpies need to add quality to their squad if they are to challenge towards the top end of the table. Steve Bruce’s men are currently 20-1 to finish in the top 6 next season so if you’re of a sunny and optimistic disposition it might be worth backing this with a free bet offer or promotion at popular betting sites like Bet and Skill.
To help them achieve such a lofty finish, here are 6 players we think Newcastle should target during this summer’s transfer window.
Emmanuel Dennis
The 22- year old Nigerian international set the Belgian league alight last season with 9 goals for Club Brugge and looks destined for a Premier League move this summer.
Newcastle will be keen to add to their attacking strength with Brazilian signing Joelinton failing to live up to fan’s expectations. They will have to act fast however if they are to secure the signing of Dennis, with Inter Milan and Leeds United reportedly interested.
Bertrand Traore
Lyon are reportedly prepared to sell the Burkina Faso star who has registered 33 goals in 126 appearances for the French outfit.
The former Chelsea prospect would add some badly-needed potency to United, with Everton and Leicester City also monitoring developments.
Rogerio
Whilst Bruce is keen to add to Newcastle’s attack, defensive cover may also be needed if the Magpies fail to secure the services of Danny Rose who impressed on loan from Spurs.
They could do worse than Rogerio. The 22- year old Brazilian has impressed with Serie A side Sassuolo, and if United can match his demands, would make a real addition to a sometimes-uninspired defence.
Rafa Silva
Another option to shore up Newcastle’s midfield, the Benfica man had an impressive campaign last season with seven goals and five assists in the Portuguese league.
Persuading him to move to the North East could be a challenge but this would certainly be one to get the Toon Army excited.
Boubakary Soumare
The Lille star has drawn comparisons to fellow Frenchman Paul Pogba, and it’s easy to see why so many clubs are keen on getting the signature of the 21 year old.
This technically sound prospect would be a brilliant addition to Steve Bruce’s side – and is someone we tried to sign in January with a big money bit confirmed – but they would face stiff competition.
John McGinn
The Scotland star endured a difficult campaign with Aston Villa in the past season, with an ankle fracture ruling him out from December until the restart of the Premier League in June, where his talents helped Villa avoid relegation.
Newcastle will face a real battle to prize the 25 year old away from the West Midlands club after they survived in the Premier League, but Newcastle fans will hope Bruce can convince his owner into a rare splash-out for such a talented player.