Newcastle get transfer green light but must avoid Bryan Mbeumo repeat

Newcastle are preparing for the January transfer window, having been given the green light to bolster their squad if Eddie Howe deems it necessary this winter. Following a significant spending spree last summer - with £250m splashed out after several uneventful windows - the focus is now on enhancing the depth of the squad. The Magpies are considering younger players, with Howe's scouting network closely examining potential talent as they aim to maintain sell-on value in the future.

Chronicle Live claim that Howe has been informed by PIF that the long-term goal is to avoid signing too many older players. This is a stark contrast to the first window following the takeover, when Kieran Trippier, Chris Wood, Matt Targett and Dan Burn were all brought in to help fend off relegation.

The summer expenditure resulted in the acquisition of stars such as Nick Woltemade, Malick Thiaw, Jacob Ramsey, Yoane Wissa, Aaron Ramsdale and Anthony Elanga, demonstrating United's serious intent in recruitment. No major changes are anticipated in January, but names are beginning to be suggested to the Magpies through intermediaries once again.

Newcastle have noted the performances of Brentford's Brazilian striker Igor Thiago, who has made an impressive start to the season and attracted the attention of scouts. Despite being somewhat dismissed by some pundits in 2024 following a devastating meniscus injury, the 24-year-old was sidelined for nearly a full year due to knee problems.

He gradually returned towards the conclusion of last campaign following that extended absence, but after completing pre-season preparations with the Bees, Thiago appears to have rediscovered his best form in the Premier League.

Newcastle have had plenty of dealings with Brentford, having concluded the signing of Yoane Wissa this summer. Those protracted negotiations followed a failed pursuit of Bryan Mbeumo, who ultimately joined Manchester United instead.

The Magpies will be wary of entering in talks with their Premier League rivals once more.

But having netted five times already this term, Igor is displaying the quality that persuaded Brentford to shell out £30m for his signature.

Following Wissa's arrival, who has yet to feature this campaign, plus Woltemade's impressive performances, a senior frontman isn't Newcastle's immediate priority, though Thiago had caught the attention of recruitment chief Steve Nickson prior to the takeover, with the former Blackburn scout remaining aware of the player's abilities.

Sandro Tonali earned "world-class" praise from experts, including Paul Scholes, following his outstanding campaign start.

However, Newcastle supporters needn't worry about speculation surrounding his potential departure, particularly to Serie A in Italy, as United officials understand that no club in his homeland possesses the financial resources to secure him. Similar to their stance with Alexander Isak, Newcastle would demand a premium price for Tonali, with valuations exceeding £130m anticipated for any interested parties.

Unlike Serie A's golden era, when legends such as Ruud Gullit, Gazza, Dennis Bergkamp and Tino Asprilla joined Italy's elite clubs, the division can no longer compete for marquee acquisitions. CEO David Hopkinson is fully cognisant of the need to reassess Tonali's contract, a task likely to be one of the first on Wilson's agenda when he takes up his new role following his move from Nottingham Forest.

Alan Shearer once swore off returning to management, but after a successful stint in the Baller League UK last season, he's back for another go.

Teaming up with his former England international colleague, close friend and punditry partner Ian Wright, Shearer will take the reins at Wembley Rangers FC.

The televised six-a-side league garnered 31 billion online impressions and over 7.7 million hours watched during its inaugural season.

Baller League CEO Felix Starck stated: "Following the huge success of Baller League in Germany and Season One in the UK, we're very excited for the second season to continue raising the levels of competition.

"For Season Two, Newcastle legend and Premier League all-time top goalscorer Alan Shearer has joined forces with his good friend Ian Wright at 'Wembley Rangers FC'. The new duo brings a wealth of experience, goals, and tactical knowledge to the team."