Luke Edwards reveals 13 players Newcastle have discussed ahead of huge summer

Newcastle United may have finally ended their long trophy drought and lifted the Carabao Cup, but the club’s hierarchy knows that significant investment in Eddie Howe’s squad is still essential to build on this success.

The last three transfer windows have been hampered by Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR) concerns, limiting the Magpies’ ability to strengthen. However, with some financial flexibility expected this summer, Newcastle are poised to make strategic moves to address key areas of the squad.

According to Luke Edwards of The Telegraph, the club has already begun planning for the upcoming transfer window, with a focus on bolstering the attack, defense, and goalkeeping departments.

In the attacking third, Newcastle are reportedly eyeing several exciting options to add firepower and creativity. On the right wing, the club has identified a mix of established stars and rising talents.

Southampton’s Tyler Dibling, Bournemouth’s Antoine Semenyo, Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo, PSV’s Johan Bakayoko, and Sporting Lisbon’s Francisco Trincao are all names under consideration. Trincao, in particular, has recently been linked with a move to St James’ Park, adding to the intrigue surrounding Newcastle’s pursuit of a right-sided forward.

Up front, the Magpies’ interest in Hugo Ekitike remains strong, with the former target now thriving at Eintracht Frankfurt. Lille’s Jonathan David and RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko are also on the radar, with both strikers having been scouted extensively by Newcastle’s recruitment team.

Additionally, Bournemouth’s Justin Kluivert, a versatile attacking midfielder who can operate both centrally and out wide, has reportedly featured prominently in early transfer discussions.

A move for the in-form Dutchman could be one to watch, though his impressive performances this season may make him a challenging target to secure.

Similarly, Morgan Gibbs-White of Nottingham Forest remains a long-term target, but his importance to Forest’s campaign means he won’t come cheap.

Defensively, Newcastle are keen to reinforce their backline, particularly on the right side of central defense. Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi remains a player of interest, despite the difficulties in negotiating a deal last summer.

Bournemouth’s defensive duo of Dean Huijsen and Illia Zabarnyi have also caught the eye of Newcastle’s scouts, with both players earning praise for their performances this season.

Securing one of these talented center-backs could provide the stability and quality needed to complement the existing defensive options at the club.

In goal, Burnley’s James Trafford continues to be a long-term target for Newcastle. The young goalkeeper has impressed with his shot-stopping ability and composure, making him an attractive option for the Magpies.

While Martin Dubravka recently signed a new contract, his future at the club could still be in doubt if Trafford arrives on Tyneside. This potential move highlights Newcastle’s ambition to strengthen every area of the squad, ensuring they remain competitive on multiple fronts.

As the summer transfer window approaches, Newcastle fans will be eagerly watching to see which of these 13 targets the club can secure. Each player offers unique qualities that could address specific needs within Howe’s squad, whether it’s adding creativity in attack, solidity in defense, or reliability between the posts.

With fresh investment and strategic planning, Newcastle United are well-positioned to build on their Carabao Cup triumph and continue their upward trajectory in the Premier League and beyond. The challenge now lies in identifying the right mix of talent to take the club to the next level.