Newcastle United are poised to finalise three new signings before Eddie Howe's squad returns for pre-season training, with the £100 million sale of Sandro Tonali transforming their transfer budget. The club agreed the Tonali deal on a busy day, and just over an hour later, news emerged that they were closing in on Bazoumana Toure.
Financial boost from Tonali sale
The Tonali sale provides a significant financial boost after Newcastle had been working with what Chronicle Live reported as potentially the smallest summer budget since the Saudi Arabian Public Investment Fund's takeover. This follows Anthony Gordon's move to Barcelona, a deal that could reach £75 million with add-ons, giving the club substantial funds to remodel a squad that has become stale.
Despite frustration among fans about a lack of progress, especially after being beaten by Liverpool for Victor Munoz, sporting director Ross Wilson has remained patient and committed to the transfer plan. Newcastle are targeting four key areas: goalkeeper, full-back, central midfield, and a wide forward.
Toure first through the door
Toure is expected to be the first signing, though caution remains until he signs. The 20-year-old Ivory Coast winger, who will replace Gordon on the left wing, offers a different profile with electric pace and dribbling ability. He scored five goals and provided nine assists in 29 Bundesliga starts for Hoffenheim last season and appeared at the World Cup. After Ivory Coast's elimination on Tuesday, Newcastle accelerated their move, with a medical provisionally booked. The deal is worth around £42 million.
Manzambi and midfield targets
Toure could be followed by Freiburg's Johan Manzambi for a similar fee. The 20-year-old Swiss midfielder is high on the wanted list, and negotiations have begun, though no formal offer has been made. Manzambi plays higher up the pitch than Tonali, so Newcastle still target a No. 6. Lamine Camara, who suffered World Cup heartache with Senegal, is a player they like, and a move could be pushed now Senegal are out.
Newcastle are also monitoring Tottenham's Archie Gray, a versatile youngster who can play midfield and full-back and was named Spurs' Player of the Season despite their relegation battle. Reports of a bid were denied by Spurs, but Newcastle are keen, though manager Roberto De Zerbi wants to keep Gray, whom he called a 'future captain'.
Pre-season plans and further sales
Howe wanted swift movement before pre-season starts on July 13. While progress has been bumpy, there is cautious optimism that the Tonali sale can accelerate plans for at least two or three new players before then. Newcastle are mindful of new Premier League SCR rules and UEFA regulations after their fine and sanction.
Further sales are expected, with Joe Willock's future uncertain and Nick Pope likely to leave if a new No. 1 is signed. Newcastle have already trimmed over £500,000 a week off their wage bill, and Odysseas Vlachodimos' loan return to Sevilla has been confirmed.
