Eddie Howe has insisted Newcastle have more work to do in the transfer market despite already spending £55million.
But the United boss has warned of difficulties over “high prices and limited availability”, as the club attempts to break their transfer record again. Howe today gave his verdict on landing £32m Sven Botman from under the nose of AC Milan, citing it as outstanding business.
The Saudi-backed club have already splashed out on the Dutch defender, plus Nick Pope and Matt Targett. Howe is now in the market for an attacker and admits it is proving the most expensive and tricky part of his summer plans.
Attempts to sign Real Sociedad’s Alexander Isak and Reims star Hugo Ekitike have floundered, and Howe is “still working hard” to land a top class forward. Chelsea's Armando Brojo remains a target.
Speaking after his side won 3-0 against 1860 Munich, Howe said: “We have definitely improved the group. But I do feel we have more work to do. I’m really pleased with the business we have done so far. Getting Matt back was a priority because he did so well for us last year. He is an outstanding player and an outstanding person and we have enjoyed working with him.
“Nick has come in and there is real competition for the goal keeping place and he did very well today so I am pleased with that and Sven is someone we chased for a long time.
Where will Newcastle finish in the Premier League this season? Have your say in the comments!
“There is nothing [more] to report and we’re still in the process of working very hard behind the scenes to try and improve the squad. That work is continuing every day, even from here. We are keen to add strength to certain areas of the team. It remains to be seen whether we can get a deal done.
“It is a difficult window, a difficult market, high prices and very limited availability. I’m sure we can hopefully land a player who can make a difference to us.”
Asked where he wants to strengthen, Howe added: “It’s not necessarily one area of the team. You have to be adaptable as if we can’t find the right player. I might have to look at other positions. We are looking at quality players who will make the group better, regardless of position.”
Botman made an impressive debut during the pre-season game in Austria, and Howe says he can play on the left or right of central defence.
Speaking for the first time in this new season, Howe said: “I’m really pleased to get the deal done. It’s no secret we’ve been chasing him for a long time. He has real ability, I think you saw that.
“He’s a presence. He’s a really good size, his technical ability has been evident from day one in pre-season. His ability to play not just long passes, but short passes. He’s very, very composed.
“I think he’s settled in very well with the group. He’s a very likeable person, very laid back and calm. I’ve been very pleased with his impact on the group in a short period of time. I think he’ll be very pleased with today.”
Goals from Joe Willock, Sean Longstaff and Bruno Guimaraes saw off Munich.
