‘Newcastle United are going to spend big, forget Saudi tax’ – top source
Newcastle are reportedly growing frustrated in the transfer market but could eventually get their way this summer as they plan a record signing spree.
According to The Telegraph (6 June), Newcastle fear rival clubs are putting a ‘Saudi tax’ on transfers and refuse to be held to ransom this summer.
Anthony Elanga and Joao Pedro of Nottingham Forest and Brighton, both table rivals of Newcastle last season, are expected to be on the target list for Eddie Howe‘s side this summer.
The Magpies have spent frugally in recent windows with Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR) holding them back in the transfer market.
Everton’s former chief Keith Wyness – who served as CEO at Goodison Park between 2004 and 2009 and now runs a football consultancy advising elite clubs – suggested Newcastle’s fears will not become reality in this summer window.
‘Saudi tax’ fears will not become reality at Newcastle, says Wyness
Speaking on the new edition of Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast, Wyness insisted the so-called ‘Saudi tax’ is not as much of a factor now PSR is being enforced by the Premier League.
Clubs across the English top-flight have been forced to sell their top assets in recent seasons to avoid breaching financial rules and incurring potential punishments.
Wyness insisted he expects a busy transfer window at St James’ Park after they secured Champions League qualification.
He told Football Insider‘s Inside Track podcast: “I do expect Newcastle to spend big, they are going to be active.
“It’s going to be a fantastic season. I’ve said it’s going to be one of the busiest transfer windows.
“Newcastle already have a strong squad, but I do think they will be spending.
“I don’t think the so-called Saudi tax really affects things as much as it would have before PSR.
“PSR has stopped that issue to a degree. Clubs no longer have the leverage if they need to sell to balance their own books.”
Liverpool told £75m Gordon offer will be accepted
PSR also means Newcastle are susceptible to losing their own stars, and Football Insider has revealed (13 June) that Liverpool have been told it would take an offer of £75-80million to sign Anthony Gordon.
Newcastle remain determined to keep hold of their star man, and it would take a “huge” fee to persuade them to sell.
Liverpool were keen on a deal for Gordon last summer (2024) amid a backdrop of financial issues at St James’ Park.
For more Newcastle United and exclusive news, follow us on Facebook or join our brand new WhatsApp Channel for instant updates to be sent straight to your phone.