Newcastle United have big ‘problem’ after Nathan Ake update – pundit
Alan Hutton has insisted Newcastle United will have to pay a “premium” on any players they try to sign during the summer transfer window.
The former Scotland international, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, claimed any club would inflate their demands if the Magpies come calling.
As reported by the Sun (5 June), Man City have slapped a £50million price tag on Nathan Ake after Newcastle launched an enquiry for the 27-year-old.
Meanwhile, the Telegraph (27 May) claim the Magpies have been met by high asking prices for the likes of Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Ivan Toney as clubs look to maximise their sales.
Hutton insisted Newcastle will face the same “problem” all summer, regardless of which club they approach.
“I think it’s a problem for them, no matter what market they shop in,” Hutton told Football Insider’s Russell Edge.
“Whether it be England or abroad, all these clubs know that Newcastle could be a powerhouse moving forward.
“They’ve got rich owners and for that, there will be a premium on the players. That’s why, I think, we’re talking about this £50million mark for Nathan Ake.
“It’ll be another interesting one. I think Newcastle will probably have a lot of targets lined up. Obviously, with Howe and the connection he’s got Ake, he knows how to get the best out of him.
“No matter who you mention, there’s always going to be that premium added on because it’s Newcastle. It’s something they’re going to have to deal with, especially in these coming years.”
Newcastle brought in five new additions during the January window, with Deloitte reporting a spend of around £85million.
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