This time of year is silly season. Every single rumour and name seems to germinate on social media, no matter the source, grow roots and sprout into the Newcastle United consciousness.
And all of a sudden, a rumour from some random Turkish journalist or fan account in Portugal, is stone cold fact. The player is now in every anorak fans’ team builder, posted endlessly to anyone who’d listen. To some, he’s already signed and formed a part of the NUFC team for the next 10 years. Cue the anger and rage when said player then doesn’t sign and the reality doesn’t fit the narrative largely created by said angry fan.
Well, as we all know, it’s not Football Manager. And in reality, things don’t always quite go to plan at this time of year. See the transfer window as more of a meandering river, which can shift and alter its course at any given moment, rather than an autobahn with pre-planned pit stops on the way.
One thing is certain, however, according to our information, Newcastle United will sign players this summer - and it’ll be a few of them. Hardly ground-breaking stuff, I know, but you’d think they weren’t going to, judging by the mood of some on social media.
So, in light of the panic - and the endless rumours - we thought we’d share our own information, carefully sourced in recent days and weeks. And we hope this gives a flavour of what to expect this summer and what not to. Cutting through the endless noise and chatter, from even some of the biggest names.
Here’s three players we think COULD sign for Newcastle United this summer - and four who we understand WON’T.
9. Anthony Elanga - Nottingham Forest
Almost there. £55m plus a little more and this gets done. A top addition on the right. Quick with and without the ball, third top assists in the PL last season and at 23, still has room to grow. | Getty Images
10. James Trafford - Burnley
I think this one does get done, by hook or by crook. Newcastle's hand was forced last summer due to PSR, they had to pull the plug. But this summer is different. A deal was almost set last week, but then the Clarets moved the goalposts in a bit of a petty move. Still, player wants it. It'll happen. | Getty Images
11. Isaac Moran - OUT OF CONTRACT (ex-Liverpool)
Sounds like this one is also done and dusted. The midfielder turned central defender was let go by Liverpool. Has captained England at youth level. Seen as very much one for the future. | Liverpool FC via Getty Images
12. Antonio Cordero - DONE
Aye, this one is already a done deal. He's not the right winger everyone expected, but he's one they've got, even if he will spend the first year away from the club. Could turn out to be a dud, a gem or another Yankuba Minteh PSR pawn. Who knows? Deal done on July 1. | NUFCTV