Newcastle United transfer Q&A: Imminent new signings, Lucas Paqueta & Diego Carlos discussed

What positions do Newcastle need to strengthen this summer?

LK: “I think in order to challenge in and around the European slots next season, like many in the halls of power believe is a must, I believe United need to sign 5/6 players in the summer window. Absolutely top of the priority list is a striker, because as good as Callum Wilson is, he’s no use on the treatment table, where he tends to spend around 40% of the season. I expect this is where the majority of the budget will be spent. Beyond that a goalkeeper to challenge Martin Dubravka, ideally one good with ball at feet, as well as a central defender, left back, wide forward and possibly another central midfielder, depending on departures.

JC: “I’m told Newcastle are prioritising signing a goalkeeper, central defender, full-back (there has still been no word on Matt Targett), winger and striker. They’re also open to strengthening all positions if the right player becomes available. All that is very ambiguous, I know! But it’s a clear indication of the club’s ambition this summer. Rule nothing out.

Will Newcastle do their transfer business early?

LK: “Eddie Howe hopes to, but United have issues. The club’s owners, on paper, have access to the most cash of any football club custodian on the planet - that does not mean they can, or will, spend it, right now, in these early windows. While there are definitely dreamers among the United ownership group, pragmatism, for now, is winning. And a carefully plotted way through the summer will not come at the expense of cash waste. And that’s why early is tough - you have to pay a premium.”

JC: “I’ve seen some supporters panic over Aston Villa’s early business (Coutinho, Kamara, Carlos) and question why Newcastle haven’t done the same. Well, what about the other 19 Premier League clubs? Doing their business early is difficult for exactly the reasons Liam has pointed out. It’s a three-month window, so stay calm and enjoy the ride.”

Lucas Paqueta... will he join Newcastle this summer?

LK: “You can never say never in football, as often things are never truly black and white. But the noises I have been hearing so far this summer suggest this is not a deal the Magpies are looking to complete, should they get the majority of their priority targets. It’s definitely one which gets the juices flowing on social media, however.”

JC: “I’m doubtful we’ll see Paqueta in a NUFC shirt next season. Signing Paqueta would take a big chunk out of United’s transfer budget for a position that isn’t really a priority at the moment. It’s an easy link - especially with the Bruno connection - and plenty are guilty of falling into the social media fanfare.”

Thoughts on Aston Villa signing Diego Carlos?

LK: “He was a January target, but not, I understand, one the club were in any way pursuing into the summer. Priced out back then, and moving on to other, younger targets in the summer window.”

JC: “Some people said Newcastle ‘missed out’ on Carlos this summer but that really isn’t the case. Yes, United retain an interest in the Sevilla defender but would have only acted if they failed to land other targets. The club has other - and younger - targets in mind.”

Who is likely to leave Newcastle this summer?

LK: “This list is getting quite lengthy. And I think we all know the candidates. So instead, I will list one player who I think might stay, despite it appearing as if he is heading out the exit door. Howe is keen to take a look at Jamal Lewis this summer, and depending on what happens in the market, he may well get a second chance at Newcastle. In my opinion, a player with all the tools to succeed, just needs a lot of decent coaching - and let’s be honest, that wasn’t forthcoming before Howe walked through the door.”

JC: “Since Liam didn’t write the list of potential departures, I will... Yes, the most obvious are Freddie Woodman, Ciaran Clark, Federico Fernandez, Jeff Hendrick, Isaac Hayden and Dwight Gayle. I wouldn’t rule out others departing however - Miguel Almiron for example, i.e. a player you might not expect to go.”