Speaking to the media after Sunday’s 2-0 defeat to Aston Villa, Eddie Howe spoke like a man who knew any attacking reinforcements would have to wait until the summer window.
Howe said we need to “find a solution” with the players we have, insisting “the next chance we have to change the squad is the summer.”
As we know, it’s sometimes best taking what the boss says on transfers with a pinch of salt, which leads us to the latest link that’s emerged this week.
It comes Africa Foot, who report that Newcastle are showing ‘significant interest’ in Watford forward Mamadou Doumbia, who also has admirers at Brentford and Burnley.
They claim that Newcastle are leading the race for the 19-year-old, who is thought to be keen on a move to St James’ Park should Toon chiefs accelerate their interest in the young striker.
Doumbia has scored five goals for Watford and recently represented Mali in the African Cup of Nations. The 6ft 3″ talent is predominantly a centre forward, but he has also played on both flanks for the Hornets.
With Ross Wilson thought to be on the lookout for more teenage gems, Doumbia may be another one to watch in our bid to bring in low-cost, high-potential gems alongside first-team ready stars in 2026.
We certainly need a focal point up front as we have no one at the moment who seems capable.
Defensively we are reasonable, midfield creativity is a problem as Bruno often slows things up due to his lack of pace and losing the ball.
In Bruno’s favour he doesn’t hide or go missing when things aren’t going well unlike Gordon.
Joseph(Quote)
One point on “leading the race” for one player or another!
We very rarely are if ever!
We are usually asleep until the desperate last few days of a transfer deadline and unlike other clubs we just can’t seem to get a deal done early.
Joseph(Quote)
Villa’s tammy Abraham signing seems pretty sensible and good value compared to most of our recent signings.
Decent chance he would even be cheaper than this lad.
Howe the toon(Quote)
Another who will be loaned out never time seen again 🙄
John(Quote)