A centre-back and a right-winger are Howe’s priorities while recruiting another goalkeeper is under consideration.
Wilson’s injury increases the need for another forward, given Isak is the only fit striker. Howe, Mitchell and Eales are unified in their desire to prioritise quality over quantity, with most additions intended to improve the first XI.
Howe has been keen to bolster Newcastle’s right wing for several windows, with a significant portion of their budget expected to be spent on that position. Having missed out on top target Michael Olise to Bayern Munich, despite meeting his Crystal Palace release clause, Newcastle retain an interest in Nottingham Forest’s Anthony Elanga, while Noni Madueke of Chelsea and West Ham United’s Jarrod Bowen are among those to have been discussed.
Everton’s Dominic Calvert-Lewin had been a target but, after a deal with Everton collapsed last month, Newcastle turned their attention to others. Lille’s Jonathan David has been watched for a long time. Newcastle want a right-sided centre-back and AC Milan’s Malick Thiaw, a 22-year-old Germany international, and Nice’s Jean-Clair Todibo are among those tracked.
Which players could be leaving?
Newcastle are looking to reduce the average age of their squad, with further senior players to depart, though there is no longer a pressing need to move people out for profitability and sustainability reasons.
Miguel Almiron may leave if a right-winger joins, with Saudi Pro League clubs showing tentative interest, while Wilson, Dubravka, Kieran Trippier and Emil Krafth are into the final year of their deals and exits have been explored.
Newcastle hope to offload Jamal Lewis and Ryan Fraser, with the latter having agreed a deal with Southampton, though the details must be finalised with his club. While Lewis played in Newcastle’s opening pre-season friendly victory against SpVgg Unterhaching, Fraser remains banished from first-team training. Isaac Hayden is also available.
Bruno Guimaraes’ £100million release clause expired last month and Newcastle are keen to keep hold of the Brazil midfielder, while they have no intention of selling Isak. Howe and Eales are adamant Anthony Gordon will stay, despite internal fears that his head was turned by an awareness of Liverpool’s interest.
