In his latest ‘exclusive’ for The Telegraph, North-East reporter Luke Edwards has been discussing Newcastle’s transfer plans – revealing those on our summer shortlist and a few names who won’t be signing at St James’ Park.
It’s his understanding that we’ll target FIVE elite signings to upgrade several areas of the first team, with Eddie Howe also keen to add strength in depth to cope with the demands of European football.
A host of names are mentioned in the piece. A fresh bid is imminent for James Maddison – who remains a top target of Howe’s. Declan Rice and Mason Mount have also been ‘discussed’, but moves for either seem unlikely due to demands in excess of £200,000-per-week; figures that would smash our current wage structure.
Other Premier League players of interest include Arsenal’s Kieran Tierney, Man Utd’s Scott McTominay and Chelsea’s Conor Gallagher, although it’s currently unclear if we’ll launch bids.
Interestingly, The Telegraph report that we’re keeping a close eye on a host of Chelsea players who could be axed this summer, but there’s fears our ‘big six’ rivals could demand silly fees should Newcastle come calling, suggesting that ‘Saudi tax’ still exists.
A series of overseas talents are also mentioned. Nice midfielder Khephren Thuram has been shortlisted by our recruitment team, while brother Marcus Thuram – set to leave Borrusia Monchegladbach on a free – and Bayer Leverkusen’s Moussa Diaby remain on our list of European targets.
However, two names who are not in our plans – despite recent links – are Raphinha and Neymar, with Luke Edwards insisting that neither Brazilian will be joining Bruno or Joelinton on Tyneside.
It seems to me that you can’t claim we’re signing 5 ELITE players then in the next breath say we refuse to pay the wages that would be required to bring in ELITE players.
ELITE players are not known for their willingness to jump clubs for half the salary just to move up north.
Daveys **** mate(Quote)
Luke edwards just writing usual cut and paste hackery … he has written the same stuff every week .. and he is always wrong … ignore the prat
Mike(Quote)