The whole footballing world is aware of the riches at Newcastle United’s disposal since they were taken over by PIF last year. Financial Fair Play may restrict how much they can spend this summer but other clubs are driving a hard bargain when they know the Magpies are interested in their prized assets.
Charging United more than they would other clubs threatens to become a common theme but Eddie Howe and his recruitment team are not allowing themselves to be made to look like mugs. The signing of highly-rated Sven Botman for far below Lille’s initial valuation most recently shows that they can still acquire top-quality players without having to pay over the odds.
Although, despite being able to agree a number of deals already, Kevin Campbell still believes it will be hard for United to conduct business without being charged ‘Newcastle tax’. He was asked – on BBC 5 Live’s Football Daily podcast – whether it’s a possibility they will be charged more than other teams.
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He answered: “Of course, they’ve got deep pockets now, haven’t they? After so many years, Newcastle haven’t invested in the squad, they’ve been paupers in the past.
“But now - with the backing and ownership that they’ve got - Eddie Howe’s done a great job and although he signed players in January, he still had to do a job on the training pitch. He did that fantastically, now they’re looking to push on and looking to bring in that type of player who’s going to get them defensively solid and now look at the top end of the pitch to be really competitive.
“It’s going to be interesting to see who they go for. They’re definitely looking at the right level of player because they do have the money.”
Extensive work will already be going on behind the scenes at St James’ Park to add to the signings of Botman, Nick Pope and Matt Targett this summer. An addition or two to the attacking options will be next on the agenda and it remains unclear who is being targeted as the move for Hugo Ekitike seems to have hit the brakes.
Further cover in midfield and on the wing might also be on Howe’s wishlist as he plots to charge up the table when the season begins in a few weeks.
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