Not much is happening on the Newcastle United front, is it? Eddie Howe called for quick action but, as it stands, only Anthony Elanga has joined the Saudi-backed revolution.
Six weeks of the window remain and there have already been a minority of supporters getting restless on social media. That frustration amplified when Hugo Ekitike snubbed a big-money move to St James’ Park last week - just as Joao Pedro did earlier in the window.
NewcastleWorld understands work is ongoing behind the scenes but Toon chiefs are unwilling to be held to ransom. Optimism remains that the Magpies will recruit sufficiently ahead of a Champions League campaign.
In a game dominated by statistics and data, for a bit of fun, we delved into the AI world to ask how Newcastle might line up next season. Grok, the AI assistant powered by X, gave its predicted Toon line-up for the 2025-26 campaign.
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1. GK - James Trafford
AI explanation: Linked with Newcastle from Burnley, where he conceded 16 goals in 45 Championship games, the 22-year-old is a strong candidate to challenge or succeed Nick Pope. | Getty Images
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2. RB - Tino Livramento
AI explanation: The 22-year-old is Newcastle’s long-term right-back, with his performances attracting interest but no indication of a departure. | Getty Images
3. CB - Marc Guehi
AI explanation: Newcastle’s interest in the Crystal Palace centre-back persists, with his contract situation making a transfer feasible at around £50million. | Getty Images
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4. CB - Sven Botman
AI explanation: The 25-year-old Dutch defender remains a key starter when fit, valued for his composure and left-footed passing. | Getty Images