Newcastle United are preparing a major transfer push worth up to £124.3 million, targeting at least three new signings before their pre-season training camp in La Manga on July 31. The Magpies have already secured a deal for Dutch teenager Sean Steur for approximately £23 million, with his medical booked and the transfer expected to be completed within 48 hours.
Funding from Key Sales
The recent transfer activity has been made possible by the sales of Sandro Tonali to Tottenham Hotspur and Anthony Gordon. Insiders at St James' Park confirmed that without these exits, the club would not have been able to pursue their targets. The sales have also eased the pressure regarding UEFA's financial fair play rules, though Newcastle remain mindful of a £5.2 million fine still looming.
Head coach Eddie Howe initially worked with a limited budget but recognized the need for high-profile departures to boost spending. The club's sporting director, Ross Wilson, conducted swift and secret talks to secure Steur's transfer.
Johan Manzambi and James Trafford Targets
Newcastle are now set to intensify their pursuit of Swiss international Johan Manzambi, who is leaving Bundesliga side SC Freiburg this summer. Despite a recent injury that kept him out of Switzerland's World Cup match against Colombia, Manzambi is expected to recover quickly, and the setback is not expected to hinder a move. The 24-year-old is valued at £51.3 million, but Newcastle face competition from other clubs.
Another target is England and Manchester City goalkeeper James Trafford, rated at £50 million. Man City are open to selling Trafford just one year after his return from Burnley. However, both Manzambi and Trafford are priced slightly higher than Newcastle's initial budget, prompting the club to consider further departures after Tonali and Gordon.
Bruno Guimaraes Future in Doubt
Newcastle insiders insist that midfielder Bruno Guimaraes will not be sold, viewing him as integral to their plans. However, Arsenal remain interested and are willing to bid around £65 million for the 29-year-old Brazil international. Bruno and his agent, Alexis Malavolta, have remained silent on his future, and he did not discuss transfers after Brazil's World Cup loss to Norway. Bruno left for the World Cup without signing a new deal, and his representatives have been open to talks over the past 24 months, leaving his long-term commitment uncertain.
Newcastle are not under pressure to sell further players, but the club's hierarchy acknowledges that additional departures could facilitate the Manzambi and Trafford deals.
