There are still four days to go until the transfer window opens but the scale of the challenge already facing Newcastle United is clear. Eddie Howe has stressed he only wants 'elite' signings this summer, but there is a need for both quality and quantity ahead of the new season.
Newcastle must box clever amid the multitude of names which have already been linked to St James' Park. Even with a top-four finish and the club's wealthy owners, the Magpies are not yet in a position to compete with their 'Big Six' rivals on an even financial footing.
That should not deter United from dreaming big with their transfer plans though, according to Magpies favourite Warren Barton. The former full-back believes the club have already established a clear 'DNA' with their recruitment so far, and feels they are in a position to start competing for the very best players in the market.
