Newcastle now face ‘big question marks’ around PIF investment: 'They're going to be in big trouble'
Newcastle United's ownership still need to show signs that they are committed to the club, according to Keith Wyness.
The former Everton chief executive, speaking to Football Insider, states that he wants to see the Saudi ownership helping the club more in agreeing new sponsorship deals.
The club's latest accounts posted record revenues, with commercial revenue increasing 44%, but the ownership sold St James' Park for £162million to improve their financial position.
It is set to give Newcastle greater room to spend in the summer transfer window, though the club look likely to lose key players due to no European football next season.
Newcastle could recoup big transfer fees from sales, but manager Eddie Howe will still be looking for investment in his squad and signs of ambition from the owners.
Newcastle could be in 'big trouble' under Saudi ownership
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 - has "big question marks" over Newcastle's ownership.
Speaking on the new edition of Football Insider‘s Inside Track podcast, Wyness states that the Magpies need to have a successful summer transfer window.
| Revenue | £335m |
| Merchandising Revenue | £35m |
| Profit After Tax | £34.7m |
| Broadcast Revenue | £161.1m |
He told Football Insider‘s Inside Track podcast: “Newcastle got it wrong last year, and the whole Isak mess.
"They can't do that again. If they do, they're going to be in big trouble. I'm still waiting to see signs from the owners and PIF about coming to help with better commercial revenue streams and sponsorships.
"We still don't know where the Middle East situation is at present. It could go either way. And that will have an impact on sports going forward.
"There's some big question marks for Newcastle right now. But this summer window is one of the big ones they've got to get right.”
Newcastle warned as doubt remains over Eddie Howe
Having underperformed on the pitch this season, former Manchester United chief scout Mick Brown has told Football Insider that sacking Howe could be a mistake by Newcastle.
Howe's position on Tyneside could be up for consideration this summer, as the Magpies look on course for a mid-table Premier League finish.
It has been an underwhelming campaign for the club after winning a major trophy and qualifying for the Champions League last season.
Howe has been at St James' Park since 2021, and whilst there has been progress made under the 48-year-old, some supporters may believe that a new manager could take the club to the next level.