Wednesday began with perhaps one of the silliest transfer rumours feasibly possible for Newcastle United this summer. Neymar. The world's most expensive footballer. A Brazilian brand all on his own, more well known than some Premier League clubs. A man who could walk into any football side in the world.
For the record, Neymar won't be joining Newcastle United this summer - for a number of reasons. Mainly, the Brazilian doesn't strike me as the type of player who fancies ditching the French capital and the glory that comes with it, for a mid-table Premier League side.
Wednesday ended with much more sensible news. A new three-year deal for Sean Longstaff. Well-received by not only fans but the Newcastle dressing room too.
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As Newcastle United's official Instagram shared the news of the new contract, a host of first-team names flocked to the post to publicly share their excitement at the new deal.
Fabian Schar admitted he 'loved it', Jacob Murphy and Isaac Hayden claimed it was 'well deserved', Matt Targett offered his congratulations and Paul Dummett cheekily asked what time his friend was 'teeing off'.
During the recent warm weather training trip to Dubai, Longstaff was mic'd up and followed by the club's official cameramen. The footage showed a player well-liked, comfortable in the group and well and truly part of any camaraderie taking place.
Longstaff's recent performances have proved he can play a part in the new era. He stood out in the impressive win over Arsenal and played well in the season finale at Turf Moor. Eddie Howe clearly rates him too, laying on the charm in recent press conferences when asked about the player's future.
There will almost certainly be big-name arrivals this summer. There will be copious and tiresome links to the likes of Lucas Paqueta, Diego Carlos, Sven Botman, Darwin Nunez, Renan Lodi and a host of other big names. But the Newcastle dressing room is not expecting a huge overhaul. Eddie Howe has said as much.
Ask any player in that St. James' Park dressing room if they expect Neymar to join this summer. They will all say no. Fans know that too.
There's nothing to say a player of the Brazilian's ilk won't join Newcastle in the next five years. But for now it feels like feet must be planted firmly on the ground. Howe's squad clearly know that is the case.
