‘Newcastle will sell first-team star to pave way for big signing spree’
Newcastle United have secured money-spinning qualification for the Champions League but are yet to make progress on any much-needed summer signings.
The Magpies have reportedly been frustrated in their early-window efforts to sign their top targets.
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.
The club have been widely dubbed the richest in the world following their takeover in 2021 but have butted up against the Premier League‘s Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR) since then.
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 will sell first-teamers if it allows them to press ahead with their planned business this summer.
Longstaff expected to lead Newcastle exits this summer
Speaking on the new edition of Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast, Wyness claimed Sean Longstaff is one of the Magpies stars he expects to move on this summer.
The Newcastle academy product would fetch pure profit under PSR rules after coming through the ranks at the club.
Wyness suggested the Tyneside giants will “have to work hard in this window” despite their big-money backing.
He told Football Insider‘s Inside Track podcast: “I know what they mean by the Saudi tax, clubs think they can pay more because there is money in Newcastle.
“In reality, there are PSR issues for every club.
“That leverage has been taken away. It used to be that when you sold a big player, you had loads of money to spend.
“Newcastle are going to have to work hard in this window.
“I think there will be some disposals. Sean Longstaff may have to move on, and there will be others going too.
“Anything that will allow Newcastle to spend as big as they can, they will do.”
Newcastle get new Joao Pedro boost
Meanwhile, Football Insider has revealed (11 June) that Joao Pedro’s behind-the-scenes fall-out at Brighton will play into Newcastle’s hands this summer.
Pedro, 23, is high on the shortlist at St James’ Park as they look to add competition and cover for superstar striker Alexander Isak.
Sources say the forward’s training ground fallout could give Newcastle a boost in their pursuit of the Seagulls star – who is keen to play Champions League football and is ready to leave the south coast club.
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