Newcastle United took another huge step towards Premier League survival with a hard-fought victory against Wolves. Chris Wood's strike from the penalty spot in front of the Gallowgate End on Friday night has extended the Magpies' cushion over the relegation zone to 10 points.
Eddie Howe has repeatedly stressed his side remain a part of the battle for survival, but another positive result in upcoming home fixtures with Leicester City and Crystal Palace could all but guarantee their top-flight status. The Magpies spent in excess of £90m in the January transfer window, and speculation has inevitably turned to what is expected to be a busy summer at St James' Park.
Newcastle's owners will be determined not to be held to ransom over any potential transfer targets, with reports indicating Howe could be handed a budget in the region of £60m. Sales of fringe options would likely bolster this total, but the Magpies will still have to box clever if they are to strengthen the squad in the next window.
Bearing this all in mind, Newcastle are one of several clubs who could be tempted to swoop on relegated stars looking to secure a quick Premier League return. Here is a look at three players who could be an option for Howe to consider from the current bottom-three of Burnley, Norwich City and Watford.
Maxwel Cornet
The Ivory Coast international has enjoyed an impressive debut campaign in English football despite Burnley's struggles so far. Cornet currently sits level with Jay Rodriguez as the Clarets' top scorer this season having scored seven times in 20 Premier League appearances.
Predominantly a left winger, Cornet has proven himself capable of playing as a striker under Sean Dyche as well as a left-wing back at former club Lyon. However, a deal for the 25-year-old could still prove costly despite potential relegation, given the fact he only signed a five-year deal last summer following a reported £12.9m transfer.
Ismaila Sarr
Newcastle are in need of attacking reinforcements this summer, and another option Howe could consider is the Watford wide forward. Sarr stayed with the Hornets following relegation in 2020, but reports are already linking the 24-year-old with a summer exit regardless of the club's league status.
The exciting attacker has repeatedly been linked with the division's so-called 'Big Six' in recent seasons, and has so far scored five times in the Premier League. Newcastle have been credited with an interest in the past, and relegation could force Watford's hand with Sarr entering the final two years of his contract.
James Tarkowski
The Burnley defender is currently set to depart Turf Moor as a free agent this summer following six seasons with the club. Tarkowski was heavily linked with Newcastle in the January window, only for Howe to end up securing a deadline-day deal for Dan Burn.
The England international's contract status will inevitably attract attention from the Magpies and a host of top-flight rivals, regardless of whether Burnley are relegated. Sven Botman and Diego Carlos were the mid-season targets, but the 29-year-old could provide a cheaper alternative to strengthen the defence while freeing up funds to spend in other areas.
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