Paul Mitchell given Newcastle United to-do list for January transfer window after Fulham humbling
Newcastle United were given a harsh reality check by Fulham on Saturday
Eddie Howe was not given the tools in the summer. Or, if anyone’s being honest, they were not provided in January either. Toon chiefs failed to sign a player who can improve the starting line-up in each of the last two transfer windows.
Despite that, Saturday was a failure. Newcastle had enough on paper to outgun a Fulham outfit that will be hovering around mid-table this season. Performance levels have been poor in 2024-25 and the Magpies’ luck ran out at Craven Cottage.
A concern about what is to come, or a humbling reality check? The challenges do not get much easier either as Manchester City await next in the Premier League.
Darren Eales and Paul Mitchell, the two key string-pullers at St James’ Park, were watching on as the dross unfolded in West London. They are under pressure as much as anyone to deliver in the winter transfer window.
NewcastleWorld has taken a look at the transfer truths that were laid bare following the 3-1 defeat to Fulham.
Right-winger
The biggest conundrum troubling Howe right now. With Harvey Barnes in form, that leaves Anthony Gordon playing like a square peg in a round hole.
At one point against Fulham, the winger, who has not looked the same since Liverpool transfer interest emerged, was playing as a No.10. The move proved ineffective.
Newcastle had to sign a right-winger in the summer. Just as they needed one in the five windows beforehand under Saudi-backed ownership. When the Magpies needed an attacking game-changer on the bench, they did not have one. That must change this winter.
Holding midfielder
How many times have Newcastle lacked discipline in midfield? The engine room right now is a mess. For all his merits, Bruno Guimaraes is not an enforcer to sit in front of the back four that title-winning sides are built on.
Admittedly, this is an issue the Magpies could solve by looking closer to home. Sandro Tonali has seen little action since returning from his ban and, at times, played deeper for AC Milan.
Although not a combative midfielder, a double pivot alongside Guimaraes may work. Something has to change to get Newcastle firing again.
Centre-back
The Marc Guehi saga saw Newcastle left with egg on their faces after a painful month-long pursuit. Deciding not to stump up £75million proved a wise decision but did expose potential weaknesses in United’s transfer strategy.
Mitchell told reporters earlier this month that he will look further afield for new recruits. The Toon dressing room has a strong British core but many of the best post-takeover signings have arrived from abroad.
For the “superstar money” Crystal Palace demanded, surely there is better value on the continent. Defence is not Newcastle’s weakness but frailties were on show at Craven Cottage. Fabian Schar and Dan Burn turn 33 this season - fresh legs are needed.