Newcastle United are entering a crucial period that will define their season, and manager Eddie Howe is also looking ahead to potential new players in the upcoming transfer window.
Newcastle Injuries Highlight Need for Transfers
The upcoming Carabao Cup final against Liverpool is a major focus for Newcastle, but first, they must concentrate on their Premier League match against West Ham United.
Injuries and suspensions have limited Eddie Howe’s team selection for recent games. It has been confirmed that Sven Botman requires surgery and will be out for around two months.
However, there is positive news regarding Alexander Isak, who is fit after experiencing some fatigue. Howe stated that Isak is feeling well and has trained without issues.
Newcastle will be without Anthony Gordon for three games due to suspension, and Jamaal Lascelles and Lewis Hall are also currently unavailable. Considering these absences, Newcastle manager Howe is expected to strengthen the squad in the summer transfer window for the next Premier League season.
While Swedish forward Isak has been mentioned in connection with possible moves away from Newcastle, the club has reportedly shown interest in Fiorentina striker Moise Kean. West Ham and Tottenham Hotspur are also interested in Kean, who has a release clause of £44 million.
Newcastle are also considering reinforcing their goalkeeping options in the summer.
Newcastle Confident About Signing James Trafford from Burnley
According to reports, Newcastle United are confident they can sign Burnley goalkeeper James Trafford in the summer. Despite Burnley’s asking price being around £30 million including potential add-ons, Newcastle are keen to secure his services.
Trafford, who plays for England’s Under-21 team, is seen as a long-term successor to Nick Pope and is reportedly interested in joining Newcastle.
Ian Wright has praised Trafford as “brilliant”. Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur have also previously shown interest in him. It’s believed that Thomas Tuchel has discussed Trafford’s international ambitions with him, suggesting a potential future England call-up. Trafford will likely want to be guaranteed playing time at Newcastle, and his arrival could mean Martin Dubravka might leave St James’ Park.
Securing the future of his defense is a priority for Howe, and it is now up to him and PIF (Public Investment Fund) to finalize the deal for Trafford when the summer transfer window opens.
Vihaan Mehrotra