Former Newcastle United striker Michael Owen is surprised by the lack of signings at St. James' Park this summer. So far, Eddie Howe's side have made just three signings for the first team, with Matt Targett's loan move becoming a permanent, Sven Botman arriving from Lille and Nick Pope arriving from Burnley.
The Magpies have not hidden their desire to bolster the squad in advanced areas, with bids for the likes of James Maddison and Anthony Gordon reportedly rejected in recent weeks. Newcastle have already stressed they won't be taken advantage of this summer, with their new found wealth causing inflation on players' price tags.
"I've been surprised how quiet they've been in the transfer window," Owen told DAZN. "They've kept the powder dry and in many ways they had a really good transfer window in January. That was amazing.
READ MORE: Newcastle United move interests Callum Hudson-Odoi but Magpies face stiff competition
"And I really like the manager (Eddie Howe). I did a lot of work with him while he was out of the game once he left Bournemouth and I can't tell you how much he impressed me. I'm really impressed with him. So I think they're in good shape.
"But I did expect them to sign one or two more [players], [but] I do expect them to be absolutely fine, of course, this season."
While Owen believes the Magpies will avoid a repeat of last season, he's shocked to see the club not be more active in the transfer market, with European football the long-term ambition.
He added: "I was expecting them to maybe push for European places if they went and signed two or three good players, the likes of, you know [Jesse] Lingard, I thought maybe.
"Raheem Sterling, I thought they might go and make a big push for players like that to get them to that next level. So Europe now is looking — I'm not quite sure about that. But I think it'll be a solid season for them."
READ NEXT
Newcastle's game changer transfer profile as Goncalo Ramos and James Maddison send new reminders
Brighton show class after Newcastle draw even after only 'one team was going to win' claim
Newcastle find £10m bargain, angry Joelinton and Brighton react to 'ugly' side to Eddie Howe
Nick Pope trends again for new reason, Brighton taunt and Newcastle transfer hope - 5 things
