Newcastle United have enjoyed tangible success under Eddie Howe this campaign and may now be willing to follow that up by showing ambition in the transfer market.
Newcastle in Champions League race ahead of summer window
Retaining a game in hand over most of their rivals for continental qualification, Newcastle will feel a sense of quiet optimism over their chances of securing a Champions League berth ahead of next season.
Mathematically, England is now set to have five positions available for Europe’s premier competition via the Premier League. At the same time, either Manchester United or Tottenham Hotspur could clinch a spot if they win the Europa League.
Eddie Howe deserves a lot of credit for leading his side into the mix, and it is likely PIF will back the Englishman on the market following his role in helping the Magpies to claim their first silverware since 1955.
Alexander Isak’s future will come under the microscope at St James’ Park, so it is no surprise that Newcastle could target Benfica forward Vangelis Pavlidis as a replacement for the Sweden international.
In addition, Callum Wilson is expected leave the Magpies on a free transfer at the end of the season, which will require work to be done behind the scenes to provide adequate squad depth at centre-forward.
Newcastle contracts set to expire this summer
Callum Wilson
No option
Mark Gillespie
No option
John Ruddy
No option
Jamal Lewis
No option
Jamaal Lascelles
No option
Aaron Ramsdale is on Newcastle’s wishlist up the other end, but it is likely that firepower will be the first port of call on the agenda this summer for Howe and the recruitment department.
Now, the Geordies have identified who they feel could be a main contender to succeed Wilson ahead of 2025/26, per recent developments.
Newcastle want to sign Dominic Calvert-Lewin on a free transfer
According to reports, Newcastle have made contact with Dominic Calvert-Lewin’s entourage and the Three Lions international is viewed as a priority signing to replace Wilson at St James’ Park.
They also have another unnamed star in the frame, but they are believed to be ‘very keen’ on the Everton man after he turned down multiple offers to extend his time on Merseyside.
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Labelled a ‘top striker’ by Carlo Ancelotti, Calvert-Lewin has registered 71 goals and 20 assists in 269 appearances for his current employers. However, frequent injury problems and goal droughts in recent years have led him to a career crossroads in his prime.
Earning £100,000 per week at Goodison Park, the former Sheffield United man possesses a lot of distinctive qualities that could offer Newcastle a more physical Plan B in attack, alongside the carrot that he is a homegrown star who would offer leeway in European squad registration.
Given his availability on a free transfer, the Magpies may feel Calvert-Lewin is a risk worth taking to bolster their forward line.