Summer signing number one is through the door, now Newcastle United want more.
The £55million arrival of Anthony Elanga from Nottingham Forest last week ended the Magpies’ two-year wait for a major signing. During that time, the club has had its troubles with Premier League Profitability and Sustainability Rules (PSR) but is now understood to be a healthy financial position.
So, what’s next? Well, Newcastle’s frustration in the transfer window isn’t through a lack of trying. They wanted Liam Delap and Joao Pedro, but both joined Chelsea. Earlier this week, a club-record bid was submitted for Hugo Ekitike only for Liverpool, after being told Alexander Isak wasn’t for sale, to swoop in.
Following the departure of Callum Wilson, signing a striker is a priority for Howe. But equally, so is a centre-back and midfielder, now Sean Longstaff has departed, while talks are ongoing with Burnley for goalkeeper James Trafford.
With around six weeks of the summer transfer window remaining, it’s fair to say Newcastle still have plenty of work to do in order to bolster Eddie Howe’s squad for its Premier League and 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 line-up for the 2025-26 campaign.
5. LB: Lewis Hall
ChatGPT: "Now permanent, recognized as the emerging young talent in the full-back position." | Getty Images
6. CM: Sandro Tonali
ChatGPT: "Holds the midfield with energy and tactical discipline, expected to remain at the club." | Getty Images
7. CM: Bruno Guimaraes
ChatGPT: "The midfield engine and vice-captain, central to club structure." | Getty Images
8. CM: Joelinton
ChatGPT: "Brazilian powerhouse combining physicality and tactical awareness, completing the midfield trio." | Getty Images