Newcastle twist as £100k-a-week star now expected to leave despite Eddie Howe statement

Newcastle United are not expected to make any last-minute moves in the transfer market before the window closes. The club has remained relatively quiet throughout the window, with plans for the summer taking precedence over immediate reinforcements.

Despite their strong league position, Newcastle have prioritized long-term strategy over short-term fixes, even as they sit fifth in the Premier League, just three points behind third-placed Nottingham Forest.

Eddie Howe’s squad will face Fulham at St James’ Park on Saturday, and a win, combined with favorable results elsewhere, could see them break into the top three.

While transfer speculation continues, most of the club’s activity has involved outgoing players rather than new arrivals. Several squad members have departed on loan, including Isaac Hayden, who joined Portsmouth, while Jamie Miley secured a permanent move to Hartlepool United.

However, the biggest departure of the window was Miguel Almiron’s £11 million return to Atlanta United after spending six years on Tyneside.

Following Almiron’s exit, Newcastle players shared farewell messages, wishing him success in the next chapter of his career.

Howe, who had already stated that he did not anticipate further departures, may still see one more player leave before the deadline, according to reports from Sky Sports.

Matt Targett’s future remains uncertain as he struggles for game time. Injuries have plagued his season, and the impressive performances of Lewis Hall have made it even more difficult for him to reclaim a spot in the starting lineup.

Newcastle have decided against offering Targett a new contract and had initially planned to send him out on loan this month. Brentford and Leicester were reportedly interested, but the latest developments suggest that Southampton, Watford, and Leeds United have also entered the conversation.

Leeds’ involvement depends on whether they lose Junior Firpo, who has drawn interest from Real Sociedad. If Firpo moves on, Targett could become an option for the Championship side. However, as things stand, Firpo remains a Leeds player, and a move for Targett is not yet imminent.

Since joining Newcastle in 2022, Targett has made 44 appearances but has struggled with fitness issues, missing a significant portion of the 2023/24 season due to hamstring and Achilles tendon problems.

His return was further delayed by a battle with eczema, adding to his difficulties in regaining match fitness. Newcastle are not expected to receive a significant fee for his departure, but his £100,000-per-week wages being removed from the club’s payroll would provide financial flexibility.

Howe’s stance on transfers has remained consistent, with Newcastle’s approach signaling a long-term vision rather than immediate spending. While they have monitored several targets, including some who have since signed for other clubs, the focus has now shifted to scouting and securing younger players for the future.

One such target is Antonio Cordero, an 18-year-old talent currently playing for La Liga 2 side Malaga. Newcastle have entered pre-contract discussions with Cordero, who has impressed in Spain and could be a future addition to the squad.

When asked about any potential last-minute departures, Howe expressed confidence that the squad would remain unchanged. However, he acknowledged that unforeseen circumstances could still alter the situation before the window officially closes.

His comments suggest that while Newcastle are not actively pursuing further sales, they remain open to adjusting their plans if the right opportunity arises.

Despite the quiet transfer window, Newcastle remain in a strong position in the Premier League, and their decision to delay significant signings until the summer aligns with their long-term objectives.

The club continues to operate with a structured recruitment strategy, emphasizing sustainable growth rather than short-term fixes. If circumstances shift before the deadline, the Magpies may still see changes, but for now, the squad appears set for the remainder of the season.