Newcastle chiefs hold agent talks as Eddie Howe eyes five key signings - Report

Now our hopes of securing European football for 2026/27 are all but over, most Newcastle United fans are keen to see the end of this season and the start of some summer transfer activity. 

Despite several signings last summer - a goalkeeper, centre-back, midfielder, £50m winger and £124m on strikers - Newcastle have their work cut out this coming window and so much to sort.

Just about every position on the pitch needs addressing in some way or another, whether it's to improve current first-team issues, replace departing stars or bulk up a squad that's been left wanting for much of 2025/26.

This brings us nicely to the latest transfer reports from Lee Ryder, who suggests things are stepping up front on Tyneside.

Howe outlines priorities as meeting takes place

According to The Chronicle, Newcastle United chiefs have opened talks with a number of agents as the club look to finalise a shortlist of summer targets.

A fortnight on from PIF's visit, as key figures met at Matfen Hall for our yearly review, Lee Ryder reports that club officials are now stepping up transfer plans in a bid to start the summer fast; something we didn't do 12 months ago.

Eddie Howe is thought to be prioritising five positions, for now at least, with a new goalkeeper wanted alongside, right and left-back cover, a centre-back and striker.

That list is bound to increase if and when others depart this summer, with Anthony Gordon's likely exit leaving us on the lookout for left wingers, should an acceptable bid arrive for the England international.

Some big earners will be coming off the books - Kieran Trippier being one of those - and Ryder hints that the free agent market could also be explored, with PSR/SCR restrictions set to be hanging over the club once again.