Abdulhafiz TeslimNewcastle United have vowed to stick to their transfer plan this summer despite growing concern over interest in several of their key players, including reports linking Arsenal with a move for club captain Bruno Guimaraes.
Sporting director Ross Wilson and the recruitment team at Benton continue to work on incoming transfers as they seek a breakthrough in what has so far been a frustrating summer window.
United have so far only added Ewen Jaouen to their squad since the end of the season, with the French U21 goalkeeper arriving from Reims in a deal reported to be worth around £18.5million. Jaouen’s signing reflects the model Newcastle are pursuing this summer, targeting young and talented players from across Europe.
The Frenchman is not expected to be Newcastle’s first-choice goalkeeper when the new season begins. Meanwhile, following Anthony Gordon’s move to Barcelona and the departures of experienced players including Kieran Trippier and Emil Krafth, Eddie Howe’s squad appears lighter just over two weeks before the players return for pre-season training.
Howe spoke in May about Newcastle’s desire to complete their transfer business early, but those plans have encountered setbacks. Missing out on Victor Munoz was a particular disappointment after significant time and effort had been invested in the deal, and progress since then has appeared limited.
The transfer market remains relatively slow, with many clubs still yet to complete major business as the World Cup continues to influence decision-making. Newcastle and several other Premier League clubs anticipated a slower market, with many top players delaying decisions on their futures until after the tournament.
However, some rivals have moved more quickly in the market, increasing frustration among sections of the Newcastle fanbase. Wilson and Howe remain in constant dialogue and, while the club understands supporters’ concerns following last summer’s difficulties, Newcastle remain determined to stay patient and stick to their long-term recruitment strategy.
That concern increased further following reports that Arsenal have held preliminary talks regarding a potential move for Newcastle captain Bruno Guimaraes.
However, Newcastle insist the Brazilian international is not for sale and are understood to be working on an improved contract package for the 28-year-old, who has two years remaining on his current deal.
Guimaraes’ importance to Newcastle extends far beyond his performances on the pitch, with the midfielder viewed as a key figure in the dressing room. Reports have also suggested continued interest in Sandro Tonali from Tottenham Hotspur, while speculation surrounding several Newcastle players has added to the uncertainty surrounding the club’s summer.
Much of that noise could be quietened by the arrival of a major signing, and securing reinforcements remains the priority for Ross Wilson and Newcastle’s recruitment team as they continue to work around the clock ahead of the new season.
Abdulhafiz Teslim
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