adminNewcastle United’s summer 2026 transfer business is well underway, with the club embarking on a major squad overhaul following a disappointing campaign that ended without European qualification.
Under the guidance of sporting director Ross Wilson, the Magpies are adopting a strategy focused on younger, data-driven recruitment and smart trading as they work within strict squad-cost financial regulations.
The club has already completed the signing of French goalkeeper Ewen Jaouen and secured a deal for highly-rated Ecuadorian winger Johan Martínez from Independiente del Valle.
The 16-year-old prospect will officially join Newcastle after his 18th birthday in the summer of 2027 and will remain with the Ecuadorian club until then.
Martínez was part of the Independiente del Valle side that won the Ecuadorian Under-17 title in December 2025 and has continued to impress on the international stage with Ecuador at the South American Under-17 Championships. He recently scored in Ecuador’s victory over Chile as they progressed to the semi-finals.
Speaking about the signing, Ross Wilson said: “We’re delighted to beat off serious competition from leading clubs across Europe to bring Johan to Newcastle United.
“Identifying and recruiting promising young players is a key part of how we build for the future, and our scouting and recruitment teams have worked diligently to secure Johan’s signature.
“Independiente del Valle have a strong reputation for developing young players and Johan has undoubtedly benefited from that environment.
He will continue his progress there while we maintain a close connection with his development, and we look forward to welcoming him to Newcastle next year.”
Alongside the arrivals, Newcastle have overseen a significant number of departures as part of their squad restructuring. Anthony Gordon has completed a move to Barcelona following an impressive 10-goal Champions League campaign.
Senior defenders Kieran Trippier and Emil Krafth have both left the club after their contracts expired, while goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale has returned to Southampton following the conclusion of his loan spell.
Backup goalkeepers John Ruddy and Max Thompson have also departed at the end of their contracts. Matt Targett has left Tyneside permanently after completing a loan spell at Middlesbrough, while midfielder Travis Hernes has secured a permanent transfer to Dutch side FC Groningen.
Despite already strengthening the goalkeeping department with Jaouen’s arrival, Newcastle remain interested in Manchester City goalkeeper James Trafford as a potential long-term No. 1.
The full-back position has also become a priority following the departures of Trippier and Krafth, as well as ongoing uncertainty surrounding Tino Livramento’s future.
Further changes could occur in midfield, with Joe Willock expected to leave the club. Newcastle are also reportedly willing to consider substantial offers for Sandro Tonali amid strong interest from Manchester United.
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Abdulhafiz Teslim
