Newcastle United Poised for Major Squad Overhaul Ahead of 2025/26 Season
As the 2024/25 season winds down, Newcastle United find themselves at a pivotal moment in their modern history. Following a remarkable return to Europe, a historic Carabao Cup triumph, and solidifying their Premier League top-six credentials, the club’s ambitious owners, the Public Investment Fund of Saudi Arabia (PIF), alongside Eddie Howe’s leadership, are preparing to reshape the squad for the challenges of competing on multiple fronts.
The summer of 2025 promises to be one of the most transformative transfer windows in recent memory for the Magpies. With Champions League football secured and expectations higher than ever, Newcastle must navigate financial fair play restrictions, player contracts, and injury concerns, while reinforcing key areas with world-class talent.
Goalkeeping Department: A New Era
One of the club’s priority areas this summer is the goalkeeping department. Nick Pope, widely considered one of the Premier League’s most consistent keepers, suffered a serious shoulder injury in late 2024, casting doubt over his long-term fitness. Martin Dubravka, now 36, remains a dependable deputy, but with his contract winding down and age catching up, the Magpies are eager to futureproof the position.
Newcastle have reportedly identified Burnley’s James Trafford as a top target. The 22-year-old has impressed with his shot-stopping reflexes and composure under pressure despite Burnley’s relegation fight. A £20 million move is said to be in the works, with Trafford keen on a step up to a European-challenging club.
Odysseas Vlachodimos, signed from Nottingham Forest in 2024, remains in the squad but has yet to stake a strong claim for the number one jersey. With Howe’s emphasis on distribution and playing out from the back, a modern ball-playing goalkeeper could be high on the agenda — whether Trafford arrives or not.
Defensive Reinforcements: Addressing an Aging Backline
Newcastle’s defensive line was instrumental in their recent resurgence, but questions now linger about the longevity of several key figures. Fabian Schär, at 33, and Dan Burn, now 32, have both served the club admirably but have shown signs of decline in pace and recovery. Additionally, Sven Botman, one of the club’s defensive leaders, has endured recurring knee issues, necessitating careful management and backup options.
Sources indicate that Newcastle have reignited interest in Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi, though competition from other top-six clubs makes the £50 million-rated England international a complicated acquisition. Another option is Abdukodir Khusanov, the 21-year-old Uzbek international currently plying his trade in Ligue 1. Khusanov’s athleticism and ball-carrying abilities would provide a dynamic option alongside Botman or Guehi.
At fullback, Kieran Trippier’s leadership remains invaluable, but at 34, a younger right-back to eventually replace him is needed. Tino Livramento, signed in 2023, has already begun to stake his claim, while Lewis Hall’s loan deal from Chelsea has been made permanent, bolstering the left side of the defense.
Midfield Dynamics: Retention and Potential Departures
Few departments in the Newcastle squad are as talent-rich as the midfield — but this summer could see significant changes.
Bruno Guimarães, the heartbeat of the team, has reportedly drawn interest from Barcelona. His £100 million release clause, active in June 2025, has the Catalan giants exploring options, though insiders believe the Brazilian is content on Tyneside, especially with Champions League football on offer.
Sandro Tonali, whose arrival in 2023 from AC Milan was seen as a major coup, has endured a mixed spell marked by injury and adaptation challenges. Despite interest from Real Madrid and Manchester City, Newcastle remain reluctant to sell, believing Tonali can evolve into a key figure in Howe’s high-energy pressing midfield.
Joe Willock and Joelinton have had injury-plagued seasons, and while both remain important squad options, there’s an understanding that depth needs to be added. Youngster Lewis Miley has emerged as a surprise standout, offering versatility and maturity beyond his years.
Newcastle are reportedly eyeing Khephren Thuram of OGC Nice and Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall from Leicester City as potential additions to strengthen their midfield depth and maintain high-intensity pressing standards.
Attacking Options: Strengthening the Frontline
Newcastle’s attacking unit delivered in flashes last season, but injuries to key players such as Alexander Isak and Callum Wilson exposed a lack of consistent firepower. As a result, the club is actively exploring attacking reinforcements.
Victor Osimhen has emerged as Newcastle’s marquee target. The Nigerian striker, who netted 25 goals for Napoli last season, is reportedly open to a Premier League move. With Napoli demanding £84 million, it would represent a club-record transfer, but the Magpies’ ownership is believed to be willing to back Howe with the funds.
Additionally, Bryan Mbeumo of Brentford, who enjoyed a stellar 20-goal season, is being monitored. His versatility to play across the frontline and natural goal-scoring instincts make him a compelling option, though competition from Manchester United complicates matters.
There’s also growing speculation that Newcastle could revisit a move for Bayer Leverkusen’s Moussa Diaby, previously linked before his switch to Germany. His pace, directness, and Champions League experience would be valuable assets to a Newcastle side aiming to compete in Europe’s elite competition.
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