The 2021/22 Premier League season won’t be forgotten any time soon by Newcastle United fans, in what must surely go down as one of the biggest rollercoaster campaigns in the club’s history. From the depths of early season despair to the scenes of unbridled joy following the takeover, and on to a sustained sequence of positive results not seen around these parts in years. It was certainly some ride, even for a club which rarely does drama by half-measures.
And for once following the conclusion of a season, the only way would appear to be upwards, as the Magpies are finally at least threatening to challenge once more. Rather than seeking odds to avoid relegation, fans assessing the best football betting offers can consider top 10, top 6 or “whisper it quietly” even top 4 finishes.
And also, for the first time in what seems like an age, supporters can look forward to the summer transfer window with genuine excitement. But who will be next through the St. James’ Park doors? That’s always a difficult question, and all the more so given the still undetermined influence the shrewd Dan Ashworth will be permitted to assert. Nevertheless, here we take a look at a quartet of the “more likely” summer signings.
Matt Targett – £15million
At first glance this would surely seem to be a no-brainer. First linked with Newcastle back in the Rafa Benitez days when still plying his trade with Southampton, left back Matt Targett was belatedly given his chance to impress the Newcastle faithful when arriving on loan in January. And impress he did, with Howe paying the South Coast native the ultimate compliment in describing him as “an integral member of the squad”. Ultra-consistent, Targett was selected to start whenever available, endearing himself to the fans with hard-working defensive tenacity, energy, and a left foot more cultured than many may have anticipated. A £15million option to buy surely represents excellent value in the modern market.
Hugo Ekitike – £25million
This one almost came to fruition at the tail end of the January window, with a fee seemingly agreed, only for the player to reportedly get cold feet at the eleventh hour – opting instead to remain in France to further his development. That decision should probably be applauded coming from such a young man, deciding to improve himself as a player rather than grabbing the big money move at the earliest opportunity. However, it may be that the time is now right for the 19-year-old to make the switch, having further enhanced his reputation in ending the campaign with ten goals and four assists from 24 appearances. Quick, with dazzling close control, and comfortable anywhere along a front three, the Frenchman would be something of a statement signing with other big clubs beginning to circle.
Sven Botman – £35million
Another layover from the January window is 22-year-old Lille centre back, Sven Botman. Together with Diego Carlos of Sevilla, tough tackling and athletic Botman was the man most touted to be brought in to shore up the Magpies back line – and whilst Dan Burn could scarcely have done a better job, most expect another defensive addition over the summer. Carlos is still a possibility but, now closing in on his 30th Birthday, may be passed over in favour of the younger man. A product of the Ajax academy, at 6ft5 Botman boasts all the physical attributes needed to succeed, and the lure of the Premier League may well see one of the most coveted young defenders in Europe plump for a life on Tyneside.
Lucas Paquetá – £55million
It’s back to France once again for the fourth man on the list. Although if Bruno Guimarães were in charge of transfer dealings, this 24-year-old Brazilian would likely be priority number one. Famously excellent friends with Newcastle’s number 39, Paquetá linked up notably well with Bruno during their time together at Lyon, and also when teaming up for the Brazilian national side. Strong on the ball, skilful, with an eye for both a pass and a goal he would likely prove a big hit with the toon army. At £55 million Paquetá would eat up a significant chunk of the reported budget, but perhaps the additional prize money gained for an eleventh placed finish may help get this one over the line.