Newcastle United must respond to the impending departure of Bruno Guimaraes by making a bold, big-name signing, rather than settling for an inexperienced youngster or restricting the fee. The club's next move is crucial as they enter the final month of the transfer window.
Mixed feelings among fans
Geordies are split into two camps: those who fully believe in the new project despite obvious risks, and those who are tinged with apprehension. Both outlooks stem from the same love of the club, and stance doesn't reflect how much a person cares. It's not 'us and them' but 'us and us,' just different angles.
There is a growing desire for good news after so many abdications, and the club need to help produce a sound basis for optimism. What they do next is crucial.
Bruno's exit inevitable
Bruno going has been as certain as night following day for a long time, reminiscent of the Isak situation. United say he is not for sale, again and again, but the player tells them to their face he wants out, no ifs or buts. Player goes. It's inevitable.
How United react to losing their heartbeat is now the question. Not by signing a 20-year-old replacement with little or no experience, and not by restricting the size of the fee. There is enough cash in the bank after many big-name walk-outs, and the kids already recruited need a helping hand from big brother.
Buy big and bold
Buy big and bold to add substance to the hope of the biased Geordie heart currently gambling everything on change for change's sake. What we don't need is for the next sign of change to be Lewis Hall to Manchester United. That would turn what started as a trickle with Isak into an avalanche.
United's next move in the big one should be a rescue act, not a gesture. Give the manager a chance. Give Miley, Burn, and Botman a chance. Give Hall and Livramento a reason to stay. Give Woltemade, Wissa, and Elanga hope that this can be their season. Give the new signings a helping hand. It is not too late, but we're into the final month of transfer activity.
Quality over quantity
New signings should not be counted by numbers alone. Five were signed last summer, and that led to a 12th-place finish. Quality is as important as quantity, if not more so.
