Latest news with #EddieHowe
Forbes
2 hours ago
- Business
- Forbes
Is Newcastle United Being Smart Enough in The Summer Transfer Window?
SOUTHAMPTON, ENGLAND - FEBRUARY 22: Joao Pedro of Brighton & Hove Albion looks on during the Premier ... More League match between Southampton FC and Brighton & Hove Albion FC at St Mary's Stadium on February 22, 2025 in Southampton, England. (Photo by) As June progressed, it became increasingly clear Newcastle United's transfer business wouldn't step up until early July. Perhaps that contradicts what coach Eddie Howe asked for at the end of last season - 'dynamic start to the window' - but there is growing hope of a breakthrough between over the next week before the players reconvene for pre-season on July 7 with a reported £150m ($205m) to spend. Bids have been made, but crucially not accepted, for Burnley goalkeeper James Trafford, Nottingham Forest winger Anthony Elanga and Brighton forward Joao Pedro. Interest in all three has been long-standing, with movement on Trafford expected soon. But Forest is refusing to reduce its £60m ($82m) asking price for Elanga, while Chelsea has entered the race for Joao Pedro and he is said to favour a move to London. Howe was intent on early movement on targets to avoid missing out on them, but the Brazilian would join Dean Huijsen, Liam Delap and Bryan Mbeumo in choosing against a move to Tyneside already. Frustration is growing among the fanbase, and the entire approach is beginning to be questioned. There is context behind growing fan discontent. Newcastle hasn't strengthened its first team squad significantly in two years, and last summer was a particularly difficult one. There were public chases for Premier League targets Michael Olise and Marc Guehi which failed, after forced sales of exciting young players Yankuba Minteh and Elliot Anderson to comply with Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR) and disagreements between Howe and members of the board. Even though Newcastle won a trophy and secured Champions League qualification last season and has made moves to secure players since the window opened, unconditional trust in the decision makers has eroded dangerously. Supporters are still awaiting an update on two key appointment in the boardroom. Paul Mitchell, the sporting director, is leaving on Monday and CEO Darren Eales will follow in September due to his health. Co-owner Jamie Reuben is said to be stepping up in negotiations, while Andy Howe and Steve Nickson are taking a hands on role in recruitment. But the lack of clarity is a concern, and without a breakthrough, some believe Newcastle is simply repeating its errors in the market again. Perhaps that is a harsh assessment. But all of those targets have one thing in common, which other successful signings since the Saudi Arabian Public Investment Fund's takeover of the club in October 2021 do not. Not only are they all domestic based, but they are also extremely in demand with lots of other top clubs making bids too. Mbeumo was always going to have his pick of clubs, as were Olise and Huijsen, and all of those have more financial power than Newcastle; namely Manchester United, Bayern Munich and Real Madrid. Although the project is an exciting one, there is only so much they can offer in terms of wages in the current climate. Newcastle does struggle with PSR more than most, and some are asking valid questions. about the fairness of the rules. Arguably nobody else is shopping for players above the allowance of its revenue streams; Aston Villa has, but sells key assets to offset the effects. Revenue has grown from £140m ($192m) in 2021 to £320m in 2024 and that trajectory will only continue, but signing 'in demand' players will always be difficult. The club isn't getting the most out of its opportunity within the restrictions either. With such scrutiny on every financial decision these days, no big signing can be a failure. It stands to reason why Howe in particular is driving the idea of certainty with recruits, players who will not need time to settle. Newcastle has rightly earned great credit for its success rate, but the common theme is all of those players have arrived with risk, liked by bigger clubs but crucially not enough to be poached by one of them. Anthony Gordon, for example, was wanted by Chelsea, but Newcastle signed him when excitement around him had died off a bit. A year before Alexander Isak joined, he was fresh off a season scoring 17 goals for Real Sociedad and impressing at the COVID-impacted Euro 2020; Arsenal were heavily linked. By the time he signed, doubts emerged after he netted just six times in the prior campaign, and Newcastle was seen as taking a risk. Interest in Bruno Guimaraes and Sven Botman was rife too, but Newcastle again acted swiftly with a strong desire to secure them after others didn't move. It also explains why those deals can be done away from the headlines, because there isn't as much talk around them. LEIPZIG, GERMANY - FEBRUARY 09: Xavi Simons of RB Leipzig celebrates his goal during the Bundesliga ... More match between RB Leipzig and FC St. Pauli 1910 at Red Bull Arena on February 09, 2025 in Leipzig, Germany. (Photo by) There have been links with players who fit that description this summer, and Newcastle is expected to look at other targets if no progress can be made after recent bids. Giorgio Scalvini is an extremely highly-rated defender playing for Atalanta in Italy; he is expected to develop into an elite centre back, but a serious knee injury has cooled speculation and reduced his value to a reported £40m ($55m). Now would be the time to act. Similarly, Dutch playmaker Xavi Simons has been on the radar of a number of clubs, having come through the Barcelona academy before moving to Paris Saint-Germain. Last year, when he joined RB Leipzig, the likes of Bayern Munich and Manchester United were interested, after his impressive Euro 2024 campaign which included a goal against England in the semi-final. But it has been clear he wants to leave the German club after failure to qualify for Europe for some weeks and nobody has swooped, perhaps because he isn't 'Premier League proven'. His reported valuation is £60m ($82m), the same as Brighton want for Joao Pedro and Forest want for Elanga, but he has played in thw Champions League. That is the kind of chance they took before; his situation is extremely similiat to Isak's. Why not move now? Newcastle has promised a lot this summer, there is a need to strengthen considerably and the ability to make that a reality. But it needs to be clever in the market; trying to sign players bigger rivals are after hasn't worked before. If Chelsea successfully move for Joao Pedro, a change of approach is required.
Yahoo
4 hours ago
- Sport
- Yahoo
Report: Burnley Hold Firm on Magpies' James Trafford Valuation
Newcastle United Hit Stalemate in James Trafford Pursuit Burnley Remain Resolute Over Goalkeeper Valuation Newcastle United's approach for Burnley's James Trafford has reached an impasse, with the Lancashire club rejecting an initial £25 million bid for the highly-rated goalkeeper. While talks are still alive, significant differences remain between both sides regarding the valuation of the England U21 international. Advertisement Sources close to the discussions confirm 'There is a huge gap between clubs' valuation of the goalkeeper, but talks continue.' Burnley's stance has not wavered despite Newcastle's keen interest, and the Magpies are expected to return with an improved offer in the coming days. Trafford, just 21, made a lasting impression in his debut Championship campaign, notching up 29 clean sheets in 45 appearances. His form was instrumental in Burnley's return to the Premier League and has drawn high praise from manager Scott Parker, who described the young stopper as 'world-class.' Goalkeeper Shake-up Looms at St James' Park Newcastle are preparing for change in the goalkeeping department. Martin Dubravka is widely expected to depart, and while Nick Pope remains under contract, Trafford's arrival could cast uncertainty over his position in Eddie Howe's hierarchy. Photo IMAGO Advertisement The club's strategy under Howe has focused on younger talent with long-term potential, and Trafford fits the mould perfectly. However, despite initial optimism, progress has stalled. Newcastle had hoped to tie up the deal early in the window, but Burnley's firm valuation has proven a significant obstacle. While no final decision has been made, the Magpies are not expected to walk away from the deal easily, especially given Trafford's age and trajectory. Recruitment Challenges Beyond Trafford Newcastle's summer plans have not been limited to Trafford alone. The club has also had a bid rejected for Brighton forward Joao Pedro. The Brazilian attacker remains high on Howe's shortlist thanks to his versatility and attacking returns — 10 goals and seven assists in 30 appearances for Brighton last season. That followed a standout campaign the year prior, where he produced 20 goals in 40 games across all competitions. Advertisement Brighton, known for commanding top dollar for their assets, are unwilling to sell for less than their valuation. Howe remains an admirer, but Newcastle may need to significantly raise their offer if they are to test Brighton's resolve. Elanga Interest and Isak Retention Elsewhere, Nottingham Forest have pushed back against Newcastle's interest in winger Anthony Elanga. The Sweden international is admired for his pace and directness, with Newcastle seeing him as a valuable addition to bolster their wide options. Yet, Forest have shown no intention of sanctioning a deal. All of this comes amid efforts to retain key players, with Alexander Isak attracting attention across Europe. Newcastle are determined to resist any attempts to lure their star forward away from St James' Park. Following their League Cup success and subsequent return to European football, Newcastle's recruitment team are under pressure to strengthen the squad while adhering to financial regulations. With targets identified but clubs standing firm, patience and negotiation will be key to unlocking the next phase of the club's rebuild.
Yahoo
10 hours ago
- Sport
- Yahoo
Joao Pedro's transfer preference revealed as Chelsea & Newcastle battle for £60m-rated Brighton ace
Chelsea and Newcastle United are battling for the signature of Brighton & Hove Albion ace Joao Pedro. The Blues recently have had a bid rejected for the 23-year-old, with Brighton holding out for a fee in excess of £60m. Advertisement But in a transfer boost for Chelsea, Pedro is leaning towards a move to Stamford Bridge this summer, per The Guardian. Enzo Maresca's side see the Brazilian as a replacement for Christopher Nkunku, who is expected to leave the club this summer. Pedro has been a key player for the Seagulls since joining the club from Watford in a then club-record £30 million deal. He has made 70 appearances across all competitions, bagging 30 goals and 10 assists in the process. The Brazil international has three years left on his contract at the Amex Stadium, but it seems Brighton are ready to cash in on the player this summer. Advertisement Chelsea saw their opening bid rejected but they could return with another offer. Newcastle are also eyeing a move for Pedro amid uncertainty over Callum Wilson's future. Wilson's contract will expire at the end of this month, and he is yet to agree a new deal with the Magpies. Eddie Howe's side also have William Osula on their books, but he is currently seen as a support striker to Alexander Isak. Stats from Transfermarkt
The Sun
a day ago
- Sport
- The Sun
Newcastle star Nick Pope appears to leak Eddie Howe's first summer transfer with ‘see you soon' Instagram message
NICK POPE has appeared to leak Newcastle's first signing of the summer transfer window. The Magpies are yet to add to Eddie Howe 's squad since their qualification for the Champions League. 4 4 Newcastle have been linked with a host of players, including the likes of Brighton's Joao Pedro and West Ham 's Mohammed Kudus. However, Pope's recent actions have suggested that the first signing could be further back down the pitch. The goalkeeper has commented on an Instagram post by Burnley 's James Trafford. The Clarets star shared a clip from England on his story, and Pope sent him a message which fans believed he thought was private. Pope wrote: "See you soon shagger." Fans spotted the gaffe on social media and were quick to comment. A second wrote: "This is going to be up there with some of the best NUFC memes." JOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUS A third commented: "I don't think Nick Pope has worked out dms yet." A fourth said: "Not sure Nick realised that was gonna be shown publicly." Inside the world's abandoned stadiums, which have been abandoned and left to rot after years of disuse and in desperate need of repair Another added: "Has Nick Pope just unintentionally confirmed a deal here?" The Magpies have long been linked with the England Under-21 goalkeeper. Should his switch from Turf Moor to St James' Park go through, then he would be competing directly with Pope for the No.1 spot. SunSport exclusively reported that Trafford will cost Newcastle £30million. Trafford, 22, helped Burnley gain promotion to the Premier League last season. He kept an impressive 29 clean sheets throughout the season as the team only conceded 16 times. 4
Yahoo
a day ago
- Sport
- Yahoo
Brighton Stand Firm as Newcastle Pursue £70m Forward
Newcastle's Brazilian Pursuit: Pedro at the Heart of Summer Chase Pedro's Rising Stock and Howe's Forward Focus Brighton have rejected offers worth over £50 million for Joao Pedro from Newcastle United and one other Premier League club, as first reported by talkSPORT. Eddie Howe, unwavering in his ambition, has identified Pedro as his primary attacking target and Newcastle are expected to return with an improved bid. Advertisement Pedro's potential arrival on Tyneside would mark a significant move for the Magpies, both strategically and symbolically. The 23-year-old's adaptability across the front line — able to play as a striker, No.10 or on either flank — fits seamlessly with Howe's vision. 'Pedro is believed to have expressed a desire to leave the Amex this summer and Howe has been a long-term admirer of the forward, who is rated at £70m by Brighton.' With Chelsea also in the frame, it is clear the race for the Brazilian international is heating up fast. Photo IMAGO Impressive Return at Brighton Pedro has delivered an exceptional debut campaign since his £30 million switch from Watford in May 2023, a club-record deal for Brighton. He registered 20 goals in 40 matches across all competitions — a healthy return that justifies Brighton's valuation. Advertisement Of those, ten came in the Premier League, with the remainder split between the FA Cup and Europa League. It's a statistic that not only showcases his finishing ability but also highlights his capacity to perform across competitions and under different pressures. As Newcastle search for a consistent attacking threat to complement Alexander Isak, Pedro offers both depth and dynamism. Discipline and Determination in Focus Yet Pedro's season wasn't without turbulence. 'During a clash against Brentford in December, Pedro avoided a red card despite attempting to elbow an opponent.' The moment revealed a volatile edge to his character, although VAR intervention kept him on the pitch. His frustrations continued in April, when he was handed a three-match ban after lashing out at Brentford's Nathan Collins. Further controversy came when he missed the final two matches of the season due to a training ground spat with Jan Paul van Hecke. 'With Joao we had a small issue in training, a type which isn't uncommon from time to time in all football clubs,' confirmed Brighton head coach Fabian Hurzeler. While Hurzeler insisted the matter had been resolved internally, questions remain about Pedro's temperament under pressure. Brazilian Brotherhood on Tyneside Should Pedro join Newcastle, he would become the club's third Brazilian star alongside Joelinton and Bruno Guimaraes. The chemistry between those players could be crucial in bedding Pedro into the squad and maintaining morale. With Newcastle also preparing for European football, depth in quality and character will be vital. Advertisement This transfer saga may still have twists ahead. Brighton know they hold a strong negotiating hand with three years left on Pedro's contract and interest from multiple clubs. But Newcastle's intent appears genuine and unwavering. If they meet the Seagulls' valuation, Pedro could well be donning black and white stripes before pre-season concludes. Our View – EPL Index Analysis There's a growing sense of anticipation on Tyneside. Joao Pedro is the kind of versatile, energetic forward this team has lacked when key players have been sidelined. His ability to operate anywhere across the front three gives Eddie Howe new options, particularly in tight matches where tactical flexibility is everything. Yes, the price tag is steep at £70 million, but Brighton paid £30 million and have doubled his value in just one season. That sort of leap tells you all you need to know about Pedro's development. The numbers speak loudly: 20 goals in 40 games is a top-tier return in English football, especially for a player adjusting to a new system and higher expectations. Advertisement There are concerns about temperament, of course. The incident with Brentford and the fallout with a teammate won't have gone unnoticed by Newcastle's hierarchy. But if the club can harness that fire and turn it into drive on the pitch, Pedro could thrive in the cauldron of St James' Park. With Joelinton and Bruno already flying the Brazilian flag in the North East, Pedro would be walking into a dressing room where he'd be welcomed and understood. We say go for it — and go big.
