An intriguing summer awaits Newcastle United supporters as the Magpies move past the disappointment of missing out on European competition.
With memories of Champions League visits to AC Milan, Borussia Dortmund, and Paris Saint-Germain still fresh, fans were preparing for a Europa Conference League adventure. However, Manchester United’s FA Cup Final victory over Manchester City ended those European dreams for another year.
Now, the focus shifts to the transfer window, where several key questions need answers for Eddie Howe as he prepares for his third full season at St. James Park. Can the Magpies keep Bruno Guimaraes and Alexander Isak? What will happen with Sean Longstaff, Callum Wilson, and Martin Dubravka as they enter the final year of their contracts? Most importantly, can United strengthen their squad while complying with the Premier League’s profit and sustainability regulations?
These questions will unfold over the coming months, but we at 3AddedMinutes couldn’t wait and used Football Manager 2024 to predict the Magpies’ summer transfer window actions:
**Goalkeepers**
The changes here are minimal. Loris Karius departs as his contract ends, leaving Nick Pope as Eddie Howe’s top choice, with Martin Dubravka as backup and Mark Gillespie promoted to third choice.
Howe’s goalkeeper options: Nick Pope, Martin Dubravka, Mark Gillespie
**Defenders**
This is where things get interesting. Three first-team defenders leave: Jamal Lewis to West Bromwich Albion for £3m, Matt Targett to Roma for £8m, and Jamaal Lascelles to Wolverhampton Wanderers for £6m. Incoming are Juventus centre-back Daniele Rugani for £4m, Real Sociedad’s Robin Le Normand for £35m, Girona’s Miguel Gutierrez for £30m, and Stuttgart’s Hiroki Ito for £15m.
Howe’s defensive options: Daniele Rugani, Robin Le Normand, Dan Burn, Kieran Trippier, Tino Livramento, Miguel Gutierrez, Hiroki Ito, Sven Botman, Fabian Schar
**Midfielders**
Two midfielders leave: Sean Longstaff to Everton for £19m and Joe Willock to Real Betis for £29m. Replacements include Argentina international Guido Rodriguez on a free transfer and Sporting CP’s Daniel Braganca for £20m. Academy graduates Elliot Anderson and Lewis Miley remain in the first team, and Sandro Tonali returns from suspension.
Howe’s midfield options: Bruno Guimaraes, Joelinton, Sandro Tonali, Daniel Braganca, Lewis Miley, Guido Rodriguez, Elliot Anderson
**Forwards**
Miguel Almiron and Jacob Murphy are sold, with Almiron moving to Marseille for £24m and Murphy to Nottingham Forest for £17m. They are replaced by PSG forward Goncalo Ramos and Fiorentina winger Nicolas Gonzalez.
