After going three transfer windows without securing a major signing, the hope is that this summer will be different for Newcastle United.
The Magpies’ spending has been heavily restricted by Premier League Profitability and Sustainability Rules (PSR), forcing Eddie Howe’s side to make business decisions rather than football decisions.
Last June, Newcastle came extremely close to breaching PSR but saved themselves at the 11th hour by reluctantly selling two of their brightest young prospects in Elliot Anderson and Yankuba Minteh. Their moves to Nottingham Forest and Brighton & Hove Albion fetched in a total of £63million.
United then made further sales in January, offloading Miguel Almiron to Atlanta United for £12m and Lloyd Kelly to Juventus. Kelly, who had only been on Tyneside six months after joining on a free transfer from AFC Bournemouth, is currently on loan but will complete a £20m permanent switch at the end of the campaign.
Short-term pain for long-term gain? The word we’re getting back is exactly that, although Howe and CEO Darren Eales haven’t - and understandably so - revealed that in public for fear of being quoted ridiculous fees for players.
So, how could Newcastle line up for the 2025-26 Premier League campaign? I asked AI’s Grok tool - and what it came up with, predicting two new signings.
9. CM: Joelinton
AI writes: "Joelinton, 29, brings physicality and versatility, keeping him in the mix over prospects like Lewis Miley." | AFP via Getty Images
10. RW: Johan Bakayoko
AI writes: "PSV’s 22-year-old Belgian winger is a rumored target, with Newcastle and Juventus in the race. His Eredivisie form (pace, goals, and flair) could see him replace Miguel Almirón (sold in January 2025) or Jacob Murphy. A £40m-50m fee seems plausible, addressing a long-term need on the right." | Getty Images
11. LW: Anthony Gordon
AI writes: "Gordon, 24, is thriving in 2024-25, earning England caps. His dynamism ensures he stays, with no new signing needed." | Getty Images
12. ST: Alexander Isak
AI writes: "Isak, 26, is Newcastle’s talisman, assuming he signs a new deal amid interest from Arsenal and Liverpool. If he departs, a replacement like Lille’s Jonathan David could step in, but for now, Isak’s 2024-25 form keeps him here." | Getty Images