Dealine deal: Paul Mitchell could now sanction exit of Newcastle attacker alongside Lloyd Kelly

Newcastle United sporting director Paul Mitchell has focused on player departures this transfer window, working strategically to navigate the challenges posed by the Premier League’s Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR).

While the club has remained inactive in terms of new signings, efforts to offload players have been relentless, with two significant first-team exits providing both financial relief and squad restructuring.

Miguel Almirón’s move to Atlanta United marked one of the key transfers, securing Newcastle approximately £11 million while also removing his £60,000-a-week wage from the payroll.

This transfer not only generated funds but also provided the Paraguayan international with a return to familiar surroundings, allowing him to reignite his career in Major League Soccer.

Lloyd Kelly’s exit further boosted Newcastle’s financial flexibility, with the defender undergoing a medical at Juventus ahead of a move to the Italian giants. Despite making only four Premier League starts, his transfer is expected to bring in around £20 million.

His £100,000-a-week salary represented a substantial financial commitment, and his departure will save Newcastle well over £20 million in wages over the course of his contract. These exits reflect a calculated approach, prioritizing long-term stability while ensuring compliance with financial regulations.

As the transfer window nears its conclusion, Newcastle could yet sanction another departure. Reports from Australia suggest that 20-year-old Garang Kuol may leave on loan, with A-League side Macarthur FC expressing interest in securing his services.

Since arriving at Newcastle in 2023 following his standout performances for Australia at the 2022 World Cup, Kuol has struggled to find his footing during loan spells at Hearts and Volendam.

Despite his challenges abroad, recent performances for Newcastle’s under-21s have showcased his potential. In January, he scored his first goal for the club in a Premier League 2 fixture against Southampton, demonstrating signs of growth and adaptation to the English game.

Newcastle remains open to loaning Kuol out for further development, though no official approach had been made earlier in the transfer window.

Macarthur FC, currently sitting sixth in the A-League and nine points off leaders Auckland FC, could offer an ideal environment for Kuol to gain regular first-team football.

The Magpies continue to hold the young attacker in high regard, emphasizing his long-term potential despite his struggles to break into the senior squad. He was recently spotted training with Newcastle’s first team ahead of a Premier League clash, a sign that the club still sees him as a valuable prospect.

The focus on youth development has been a key aspect of Newcastle’s strategy since the club’s takeover in October 2021. The arrival of promising talents like Alfie Harrison and Cathal Heffernan highlights this commitment, with Kuol serving as one of the first high-profile acquisitions in the revamped youth recruitment drive.

His progress remains a priority for Newcastle’s coaching staff, with under-21s head coach Diarmuid O’Carroll particularly impressed by his talent and potential.

O’Carroll described Kuol as an “exciting talent” following his goal against Gateshead in the National League Cup. He acknowledged the need for proper management to refine his work ethic and unlock his full potential, emphasizing that while Kuol’s natural ability is evident, continued development is essential.

The coaching staff views him as a long-term project, confident that he possesses the qualities needed to succeed at a high level. His performances have already shown glimpses of his capabilities, and with the right guidance, he could emerge as a key player for Newcastle in the future.

Newcastle’s approach in this transfer window reflects a calculated balance between financial responsibility and squad development.

While no major signings have been made, the strategic offloading of players has strengthened the club’s financial position, providing flexibility for future investments.

The departures of Almirón and Kelly not only generated significant transfer fees but also alleviated wage commitments, ensuring compliance with PSR regulations while allowing room for future acquisitions.

As the club navigates the remainder of the season, the focus will shift toward maximizing the current squad’s potential. Eddie Howe’s side remains competitive in the Premier League, and while squad depth may have been affected by recent exits, the long-term benefits of financial prudence could outweigh the immediate need for reinforcements.

With the summer transfer window presenting a fresh opportunity to strengthen, Newcastle’s current strategy positions them well for sustainable growth.

For Kuol, the next few months could be crucial in determining his trajectory at Newcastle. Whether he stays to continue his development within the club or departs on loan for valuable first-team experience, his progress will be closely monitored.

The club’s investment in youth signals a clear commitment to building for the future, ensuring that promising talents receive the right opportunities to flourish. If Kuol can harness his potential and translate his ability into consistent performances, he could play a significant role in Newcastle’s long-term plans.