Eddie Howe reveals Newcastle United’s transfer view on sealing fifth summer signing

Eddie Howe doesn’t “expect any major transfer business” to take place between now and Thursday’s transfer deadline.

Newcastle United announced their fourth signing of the summer on Friday with the £58million club record arrival of Alexander Isak from Real Sociedad.

But the focus, certainly from the Magpies fanbase, is now on whether or not Howe will add a fifth addition to his ranks.

Asked if he expects United to be active before Thursday’s 11pm deadline, Howe replied: “I don’t expect to be, to be honest. We’re very pleased with the business we’ve done.

“The injuries we have are believed to be short-term. There might be a bit of short-term pain around the squad but longer-term when those bodies back fit, I think we’re very strong.

“That’s not to say we are totally closed off. We’re obviously still looking but I don’t expect any major business to be done.”

United kickstarted their summer transfer business with the permanent arrival of Matt Targett before signing Nick Pope and long-term target Sven Botman.

Recent injuries to Jonjo Shelvey and Emil Krafth - both long-term - and Bruno Guimaraes has stretched Newcastle’s squad ahead of the trip to Liverpool on Wednesday night.

“If the window closed now, I’d be happy,” said Howe.

“We haven’t signed huge numbers but I think that can sometimes be a strength because the dynamic of the group doesn’t change as much but I do think we’ve signed quality and that’s so important.”

Howe confirmed any potential new arrivals will likely be on loan.

“It’s an ACL injury (for Krafth). He hasn’t been operated on yet so difficult to give you a firm date but it’s going to be six to nine months.

“At this moment in time, we’re not looking to bring anybody in that position. We have Kieran Trippier and Javier Manquillo so we have good quality and cover in that position.”