Newcastle United fans will be furious as Paul Mitchell blunder has just been exposed

The summer transfer window has only just begun, but Newcastle United already find themselves grappling with a series of setbacks that threaten to derail their recruitment plans.

After missing out on several high-profile targets, the Magpies now face the very real possibility of losing their top defensive priority, Marc Guehi, to Premier League champions Liverpool—a scenario that would compound their growing frustrations in the market.

Newcastle’s early window struggles have been glaring. Liam Delap opted for Chelsea despite strong interest from Tyneside, while Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo was deemed too expensive.

Bournemouth’s Illia Zabarnyi could follow Dean Huijsen out of the Vitality Stadium, with Real Madrid securing the latter. Meanwhile, negotiations for Burnley goalkeeper James Trafford have stalled due to an inflated asking price.

But the most concerning development revolves around Guehi, whose potential move to Anfield would represent a significant blow to Eddie Howe’s defensive reinforcement plans.

The Crystal Palace captain has long been Newcastle’s primary defensive target, with the club initiating talks in 2024. At the time, there were fears that a rival club could hijack the deal, prompting Newcastle to conduct negotiations discreetly.

While no competitor emerged last summer, a deal never materialized—reportedly due to strained relations between then-sporting director Paul Mitchell and Palace’s hierarchy. Now, with Liverpool entering the race, Newcastle risk paying the price for their earlier hesitation.

The situation mirrors concerns raised last November by TBR Football’s chief correspondent, who warned that Newcastle’s best opportunity to sign Guehi had passed.

“The summer of 2024 was probably Newcastle’s best chance to get him,” he noted. “It’s not impossible now, but with more clubs circling, it’s become much harder.” Those words now ring true as Liverpool prepare an official bid, leveraging their Champions League appeal and financial muscle to outmaneuver Newcastle.

Newcastle’s recruitment team has reportedly harbored reservations about Guehi, which may explain their reluctance to meet Palace’s valuation in previous windows.

However, with Liverpool poised to act decisively, the Magpies must quickly reassess their strategy. Missing out on Guehi would force them to turn to alternative targets—players who, while perhaps less publicized, must deliver the same caliber of defensive solidity.

The club’s ability to adapt will be crucial. Newcastle have operated with a clear vision under Howe, targeting players who fit their high-intensity, progressive style.

Guehi’s composure, leadership, and Premier League experience made him an ideal candidate, but the scouting department will now need to identify comparable options who can shore up a backline that conceded too many goals last season.

Newcastle’s struggles highlight the challenges of competing against wealthier rivals. While the Saudi-backed takeover promised a new era of ambition, Financial Fair Play regulations and the allure of established Champions League sides continue to complicate their recruitment efforts.

Liverpool’s interest in Guehi underscores this reality—even for a club with Newcastle’s resources, securing elite talent remains an uphill battle when competing with the league’s traditional powerhouses.

For now, all eyes remain on Guehi’s next move. If Liverpool finalize a deal, Newcastle’s response will reveal much about their ability to pivot under pressure.

The Magpies have reportedly kept alternative targets under wraps, suggesting they anticipated complications. Whether those players can fill the void left by Guehi—and whether fans will view them as adequate replacements—remains to be seen.

One thing is certain: Newcastle cannot afford another window of near-misses. With European football a priority and the Premier League’s top six within reach, their recruitment this summer will define their trajectory for seasons to come.

The Guehi saga may yet have twists, but if he slips away, Newcastle must ensure their backup plans are every bit as impactful.