Nafisa
Newcastle United’s Predicted £150M Transfer Blitz Revealed: Champions League Return Sparks Ambitious Rebuild with Trafford, Pedro & Guehi Tipped to Join Eddie Howe’s New Era
Newcastle United are preparing for a pivotal summer as they aim to strengthen their squad ahead of a much-anticipated return to the Champions League. Following a remarkable 2024/25 campaign, in which Eddie Howe’s side lifted the Carabao Cup and secured a top-four finish, the Magpies are now expected to ramp up their recruitment efforts in order to build on their domestic and European success.
Despite a quiet window last summer in terms of major signings, Newcastle defied expectations by lifting their first domestic trophy in 70 years and earning a Champions League berth, narrowly edging out rivals after a stunning second half to the season. However, a lack of squad depth and injury setbacks during their previous European outing in 2023/24 exposed weaknesses that the club are now determined to address.
AI projections suggest the Magpies could invest up to £150 million this summer, starting with long-term goalkeeping target James Trafford. The Burnley shot-stopper is believed to have already agreed personal terms with Newcastle last year, with only a fee left to finalise. Trafford has expressed his desire for a move, and the deal is expected to accelerate in early July.
In defence, Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi is back on the radar. With just a year left on his contract and Liverpool also circling, Newcastle are considering Sporting CP’s Ousmane Diomande as a strong alternative following an impressive season in Portugal.
Up front, the club are closing in on Brighton’s Joao Pedro a Brazilian forward who has long been admired by Howe, dating back to the player’s time at Watford. Pedro is seen as a successor to Callum Wilson, who is expected to leave on a free transfer after five years with the club.
On the flanks, Nottingham Forest’s Anthony Elanga remains a key target. Newcastle had a £45 million bid rejected previously, but fresh talks are anticipated with a renewed offer in the works.
Several exits are expected as part of the reshuffle. Veteran keeper Martin Dubravka may depart, potentially for Saudi Arabia. Injury-plagued Matt Targett is also set to be offloaded, while midfielder Joe Willock could attract bids from Premier League rivals including Crystal Palace and Fulham. In attack, Wilson is not expected to renew his contract, and backup keeper John Ruddy is also likely to leave after a single season.
As for the club’s promising young talents, recent arrival Anthony Cordero is expected to be sent on loan, alongside the likes of Alfie Harrison, Trevan Sanusi, and Alex Murphy to gain experience in the Football League.
Based on current transfer projections, Newcastle’s potential starting XI for next season could look like this:
Trafford; Livramento, Guehi, Botman, Hall; Guimaraes, Tonali, Joelinton; Elanga, Isak, Pedro
a team that blends Premier League pedigree, exciting youth, and Champions League ambition.
Nafisa
