Where should Newcastle look to strengthen this summer? | OneFootball

After what has been one of Newcastle United’s most successful seasons in recent memory, the Magpies will look to capitalise on their return to Champions League football by strengthening their squad.

It looks set to be a busy transfer window for the club, having been quiet in each of the last three windows.

With the European schedule more demanding than ever, boss Eddie Howe will be eager to secure signings to add depth to his existing squad and further advance the high pressing, attacking style that has proven so effective.

With a budget believed to be in the region of £100m, what areas should Howe and the club focus on to improve?

Goalkeeper options

James Trafford has been heavily linked with a move to Tyneside. He has had a fantastic season at Burnley, keeping 29 clean sheets in 46 games. His distribution has improved too, which will be a significant asset for Howe’s build-from-the-back system, where being able to distribute the ball accurately makes all the difference.

However, Trafford’s transfer may prove difficult. Burnley’s return to the Premier League mean they would be a lot more hesitant to let go of him, considering his crucial role in the side, which may lead Howe to explore other options.

Finding competition for Nick Pope and a potential long-term successor for the Englishman should be a priority this window.

Winger

In attack, a key signing for the Magpies would be Bryan Mbeumo, who has been on Howe’s radar for some time. Boasting an impressive 20 goals and 7 assists in 38 matches, his latest season for Brentford displayed perfectly the threat he can pose opposition sides.

He would fit in well with the 4-3-3 formation that underpins Newcastle’s high-press style, and possesses tremendous pace which suits this team well. A front three consisting of Alexander Isak, Anthony Gordon, and Mbeumo could prove a nightmare for opposing defenders.

Despite recent rumours linking him with a move to Manchester United, a transfer to Newcastle United could appeal more as the next step in his career.

Centre-back

Marc Guehi has long been the subject of interest from Newcastle and could prove a fantastic addition to the back line. The FA Cup winner has enjoyed another great season at Crystal Palace and his aggressiveness in winning the ball back would suit the way Howe likes to play.

A player like Guehi would be a crucial signing this transfer window and would complement the existing squad well. While the centre of defence is already strong with the likes of Dan Burn, Fabian Schär and Sven Botman, Guehi would add the extra depth and quality needed for the demanding season ahead.

Strikers

With Callum Wilson possibly leaving Newcastle this window, a new striker to provide competition for Alexander Isak is important. With Liam Delap looking set to sign for Chelsea, Brighton’s Joao Pedro, who scored 10 league goals last season, is another option.

The former Watford striker was the subject of heavy interest from Newcastle before his switch to Brighton, and a deal for the Brazilian could be on the table.