Newcastle will accelerate midfielder signing plan after journalist shares live news
Newcastle are looking to bring in a new midfielder after a concerning update on one of their players during pre-season.
The Magpies have struggled in pre-season despite a solid 2024-25 campaign which saw them end their 56-year trophy drought.
Eddie Howe’s side lifted the EFL Cup, defeating eventual Premier League champions Liverpool in the final.
Additionally, the Toon proceeded to finish fifth, booking their place in the Champions League next season.
But, their transfer strategy has been wide of the mark, only managing to sign Anthony Elanga from Nottingham Forest.
Missed opportunities for Joao Pedro and James Trafford are only some of the many failed approaches.
The pre-season is set to go from bad to worse following a pivotal injury update which will likely focus recruitment towards a new midfielder.
Joe Willock set for the sidelines
Posted by Daily Mail journalist Craig Hope on X (30 July), Joe Willock suffered a “serious injury” in Newcastle’s 1-0 defeat to the K-League Allstars.
The ex-Arsenal player was seen in “real discomfort” as he “immediately signalled to [the] dugout” after a challenge, “clutching the back” of his ankle.
The Englishman has struggled with injury during his time in Tyneside and this is yet another blow for the 25-year-old.
Newcastle’s midfield down to bare bones
Willock’s presumed achilles injury has added to an ever-growing list of concerns at St James’ Park.
His potentially prolonged absence leaves the trio of Bruno Guimaraes, Joelinton and Sandro Tonali exposed to an increased likelihood of injuries.
Given the importance of Howe’s midfielders possessing high-pressing and durable qualities to play in his system, the influx of Champions League fixtures is set to put pressure on his key midfielders.
Indeed, Lewis Miley is capable of stepping up and the ex-Bournemouth boss will certainly need to call upon the teenage talent.
| Newcastle centre-midfielders | Age |
| Bruno Guimaraes | 27 |
| Joelinton | 28 |
| Sandro Tonali | 25 |
| Lewis Miley | 19 |
| Isaac Hayden | 30 |
Additionally, Isaac Hayden has returned from a loan spell with Portsmouth, but it has been three seasons since the Jamaican made an appearance in the Premier League.
Therefore, the Toon must act fast to bring in another midfielder or face the consequences of their transfer inactivity in the wake of Willock’s impending spell on the sidelines.
The sale of Sean Longstaff to Leeds for a reported £12million (Sky Sports) is now looking like a huge mistake as Newcastle scurry to find a replacement.