Newcastle United target new striker and goalkeeper in major summer overhaul
Newcastle United are planning a major summer squad overhaul targeting a new striker and goalkeeper following a damaging week that severely dented their Champions League qualification hopes.
Manager Eddie Howe and sporting director Ross Wilson will oversee the shake-up at St James’ Park.
The Tyneside club could see as many as eight players depart at the end of the current campaign.
This drastic action comes after a disastrous few days where the Magpies were heavily beaten by Barcelona in Europe before suffering a home defeat to fierce local rivals Sunderland.
Search for new firepower
A new centre-forward is the primary objective despite the club spending £125m on Nick Woltemade and Yoane Wissa last year.
Wissa’s £55m arrival from Brentford has failed to deliver the expected impact, forcing the recruitment team back into the market.
The hierarchy are eager to rectify mistakes from a previous summer window that saw a staggering £250m outlay yield mixed results on the pitch.
Potential high-profile departures
While no stars have formally requested a transfer, the club are bracing for offers if they fail to secure elite European football.
Key figures such as Sandro Tonali, Anthony Gordon and Tino Livramento are expected to attract significant interest from rival sides.
Management are desperate to avoid a repeat of last summer’s disruptive saga, which saw Swedish forward Alexander Isak go on strike to force a move to Liverpool.
However, the North East outfit remain resolute that no player will be allowed to leave for below their premium market valuation.
Contract expirations and goalkeeping changes
Experienced defensive duo Kieran Trippier and Fabian Schar are both nearing the end of their current contracts.
Midfielder Joe Willock is also likely to be sold as he enters the final 12 months of his deal.
In goal, Aaron Ramsdale is expected to return to parent club Southampton when his season-long loan expires.
This departure will force the Magpies to hunt for a first-choice goalkeeper, having narrowly missed out on England international James Trafford to Manchester City last year.