Newcastle United’s starting XI for next season if transfer rumours prove true

Newcastle United will already be preparing for next season after bagging a Champions League spot this season.

The Magpies surprised everyone by securing a top four spot and a return to UEFA’s premier competition. But with the step up, Newcastle know they are going to need to strengthen their ranks further, especially if they want to compete in the Champions League, going into the competition as a bottom seed in the group stage.

Here we take a look at the possible Magpies starting XI for next season, taking into account some of the recent transfer rumours surrounding the club.

GK - Nick Pope

Pope is Newcastle’s undisputed number one after a hugely impressive first season at St James’ Park.

RB - Kieran Trippier

Trippier is the Magpies’ captain. He was one of the standout performers in the most recent season, and his top-level experience will prove useful in the Champions League next season.

CB - Sven Botman

Botman will only get better as he continues to develop and continues to get used to Premier League football. He is likely Newcastle’s starting centre-back alongside a new signing.

CB - Josko Gvardiol

That new signing could be RB Leipzig and Croatia star Gvardiol, who is reportedly being eyed by Newcastle along with a number of other top-level clubs.

LB - Kieran Tierney

It’s no secret Newcastle want a new left-back, and Arsenal star Tierney has been linked as he looks to secure more reglar first-team football next season. Tiereny is a little injury prone, but his playing style suit’s Howe’s plans.

CM - Bruno Guimaraes

One of Newcastle’s star men, Bruno Guimaraes is not going to be going anywhere, and his spot in the starting XI is not in question.

CM - James Maddison

The Magpies could well go out and get a new attacking midfielder this summer, and Leicester City star James Maddison appears to be the most realistic signing, out of contract in one year and lkely determined not to play in the Championship.

CM - Joelinton

Joelinton has been used all over the shop, and he may do his best work in a more advanced role, but while it would be tough to drop Joelinton, it would be equally difficult to make room for him in the front three.

RW - Miguel Almiron

Almiron was superb last season, providing goals and assists at will, and while Newcastle may strengthen here, Almiron should get the opportunity to continue his fine form.

CF - Callum Wilson

Why choose between Callum Wilson and Alexander Isak when you can have both? In all seriousness, if Newcastle sign a top winger this summer, Isak is likely to get the nod here, but given Wilson’s form, there’s a strong case to be made for both players playing.

LW - Alexander Isak

Based ont he above, Isak could be played wide for the Magpies to get the most out of his pace, while also being able to rotate two of the front three during the game. But as mentioned above, it’s likely Isak will be first-choice striker in the case another winger is sources.