Newcastle identify three targets as Howe eyes bigger role in recruitment - Report

Newcastle United have already identified three priority positions that will be targeted over the summer transfer window, according to Mark Douglas.

In his latest piece for the i, he reports that a young, versatile forward, a holding midfielder - often referred to as a No 6 - and an 'adaptable' centre-back will be top of our shopping list heading into the summer.

He reports that a scouting summit was held in a Quayside hotel earlier this month, featuring global and domestic talent spotters who met with head of recruitment Steve Nickson and Andy Howe - head of first-team technical recruitment - to ensure their talent searches fit the criteria needed for our style of play.

It's believed we are keen to recruit technical players with versatility and the ability to meet the team's physical demands, searching for some of the world's best players under the age of 25 and first-team 'upgrades', not squad options who fill a space in our 25-man squad.

Interestingly, Douglas also reports that Eddie Howe is hoping for more influence over the club's transfer strategy now Dan Ashworth has departed on gardening leave.

It's claimed Howe has been left fairly unperturbed by his exit and hopes to play an even bigger role in any new model of recruitment that is put forward for life after Ashworth.

Nickson is thought to be highly-rated behind the scenes at Newcastle, so it'll be interesting to see how things develop leading up to the summer, especially when a new sporting director is needed. You get the feeling Howe will have a big say in that department, as it's imperative that their views align with a manager seeking more control in the transfer market.