Jonathan David and four other players on Newcastle United transfer radar in PSR-busting move
by Kieran Horn · ChronicleLiveEddie Howe will be hoping for another big summer transfer window to take place at Newcastle United - with one or two key problems to solve. The Magpies have hit new levels at points, this season, but a few frailties have been exposed since mid-January.
Although two strong cup victories have arrived in that time, Newcastle have lost three of their last four Premier League games with a slight dip in form coming after nine consecutive wins in all competitions. Injury issues have certainly impacted that with certain areas of the pitch quite clearly needing reinforcements.
Alongside new signings, Alexander Isak remains of mooted interest to several other clubs, while there is still no guarantee he stays at St James' Park beyond the summer, although his contract situation gives all power in that sense to Newcastle. Howe focusing on that is unlikely, however, with new additions to his squad a main priority.
While Newcastle's financial position has improved recently, money will likely remain tight and that is why it might be worth signing players that could be available either on the cheap or for free. PSR remains at the forefront of Newcastle's transfer strategy, as the January window showed.
Limiting the search to players out of contract in a few months and in the summer of 2026 is a risk, but there is - surprisingly - a strong selection of talent that fits into that remit. With that said, here are five players potentially available for minimal fees that could be perfect for Newcastle - and who the club are keeping tabs on.
Marc Guehi
Given Newcastle's pursuit of Marc Guehi last summer, this would-be transfer taking place makes complete sense. The Magpies saw several significant bids knocked by Crystal Palace, but this could be their final chance to sell with his current contract up in 2026.
Former club Chelsea and Tottenham have also shown an interest in the England international, which could prompt a battle for his signature, potentially even raising his price. Injury issues for Sven Botman also makes it important for Newcastle to strengthen in defence.
Angel Gomes
Central midfield is another position in need of reinforcements with that exposed by Joelinton's recent injury and the sale of Elliot Anderson. Lille's Angel Gomes could be the perfect option for Howe, with the Englishman set to become a free agent this summer.
Unsurprisingly, other Premier League clubs are interested with his former side Manchester United and Tottenham supposedly keeping tabs on his situation.
Johan Bakayoko
The departure of Miguel Almiron and injury issues for Harvey Barnes has seen Jacob Murphy rise to the occasion alongside Isak and Anthony Gordon in Newcastle's first-choice attack.
However, it has become clear as a result that an addition may be needed to compete with Murphy for that spot. And PSV's Johan Bakayoko may be the perfect man to do that, as he will enter the final 12 months of his contract this summer.
With experience in the Champions League, Bakayoko would undoubtedly help Newcastle scale new heights and the fact he is left-footed is an added bonus.
Jonathan David
With Callum Wilson's contract currently expiring at the end of the season, Newcastle could well look to the striker market for a potential replacement. It's worth noting that he could yet stay on Tyneside, but the Magpies preparing for the long-term future is likely and that is where Lille's Jonathan David comes into the conversation.
The Canada international has already confirmed he will be departing France when his contract is up in June and again, Newcastle are just one of many to have been linked. David was subject to offers in January and Chronicle Live understands Newcastle have sent scouts to watch the frontman play.
Still only 24, David could even be the replacement for Isak - if he moves elsewhere - and that scenario occurring would see Newcastle obtain significant funds without spending any of that.
Caoimhin Kelleher
The goalkeeper situation is somewhat of a tricky one for Newcastle with Martin Dubravka currently above Nick Pope in the pecking order, despite the latter's return from injury.
While not a major problem in between the sticks, both are well over 30 and that may mean Newcastle look to bring in a younger shot-stopper soon. Burnley's James Trafford is one option that has been linked strongly - but Caoimhin Kelleher from Liverpool should be considered.
The Irishman has 16 months left on his contract at Anfield and appears keen on regular minutes having impressed in the starting XI when Alisson has been injured. The expected arrival of Giorgi Mamardashvili also makes it more likely he departs with the Magpies sure to be among club's interested.
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