Newcastle United are gearing up for a transformative summer with a £100 million transfer budget, spearheaded by Paul Mitchell tasked to bolster Eddie Howe’s squad with a new winger and centre-back.
The Magpies are in dire need of quality additions, especially upfront. Howe is keen on securing a top-tier forward to complement Alexander Isak and Anthony Gordon in attack, and with the potential departure of Miguel Almiron looming.
Regardless of Almiron’s future, Newcastle’s focus remains on securing a new right winger who can elevate their game to new heights.
🔵🔴 Barcelona are prepared to advance in talks with Nico Williams' camp starting from this week, as salary structure is key factor to move forward.
Hansi Flick has already approved Nico as top target for this summer.
↪️🏴 Timing is key as Premier League clubs are also there. pic.twitter.com/udMO4ND6Ou
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) July 15, 2024
One prominent name linked with Newcastle is Nico Williams. The Spanish international has been a long-term target for the Magpies, predating their signing of Anthony Gordon in January 2023.
As of summer 2024, reports from the Athletic suggest Newcastle have engaged in discussions regarding a move for Williams. However, negotiations could be complicated by his substantial wage demands and strong interest from Barcelona.
Barcelona President Joan Laporta recently expressed confidence in securing Williams, highlighting their financial capability and intention to pursue him aggressively. This comes amidst Williams’ standout performances for Spain in Euro 2024, where he scored crucial goals including in the final against England.
While Williams would undoubtedly be a marquee signing for Newcastle, the allure of Barcelona, coupled with his high salary expectations and Newcastle’s absence from European competition, make the likelihood of his transfer to Tyneside increasingly remote.
Newcastle’s £100 million war chest, therefore, looks set to be deployed elsewhere, with Mitchell focusing on securing a striker, winger, and centre-back to bolster the squad’s competitiveness ahead of the new season.