Newcastle United are on the hunt for shrewd signings this summer as the free agent market is explored by those making the big calls from within the St James’ Park hierarchy.
Much has been made of the Magpies hunting down two promising free deals in the form of Bournemouth’s Lloyd Kelly and Fulham’s Tosin Adarabioyo. Two defenders who may not set the world alight but would be welcomed defensive reinforcements for minimal cost in the coming months.
However, taking a glance around the rest of the market, it appears very few other options will be available to Newcastle on free transfers. So, apart from Kelly and Adarabioyo, could Eddie Howe and his staff realistically target other out of contract stars this summer?
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The most eye-catching free deal of the summer is undoubtedly Kylian Mbappe. However, despite much of the international media and rival fans trying to suggest Newcastle, and their new-found wealth, would make a move for the French superstar, obviously he will not be plying his trade at St James’ Park next season.
Another Frenchman who is out of contract at the end of the current campaign is Raphael Varane. Past his best and on significant wages at Old Trafford, the 30-year-old looks set to depart Manchester United after four years in England.
With Jamaal Lascelles and Sven Botman both out until the back end of 2024 at least, Howe has already confirmed central defensive additions are high on the list. Varane would likely need to take a hefty pay cut but would add much-needed experience to Newcastle’s dressing room should he opt to stay in the Premier League. Realistically, another unlikely deal, but one that may get tongues wagging more than Kelly and Adarabioyo.
The same applies for Jorginho. The Italian has been there, done it, and knows exactly what it takes to win major competitions. His experience could be vital in this trophy-chasing Newcastle setup. Despite this, the Arsenal ace is set to return to Italy when his current deal expires in June.
Speaking of Serie A, previously-linked goalkeeper Alex Meret is set to become a free agent at the end of the season despite featuring heavily for Napoli this term. Meret was once tipped to be a target for Newcastle but has a clause in his contract which will see him extend his current deal if he meets a quota of appearances this season – something he is expected to do.
Juventus’ Adrien Rabiot is another Serie A star who has been tentatively linked with a move to Tyneside, and England in general, for a number of years. The Frenchman is facing an uncertain future and is expected to decide his next career move after Euro 2024. He will likely be linked with Newcastle in the foreign press as the clock ticks down on his contract. I wouldn’t be expecting his arrival at St James’ Park any time soon though.
Dropping down to the Championship, Wilfred Ndidi was once heralded as Leicester City’s best player. Now, he is facing the prospect of not having a club come pre-season. Juventus, Everton and Crystal Palace have been linked.
Another second-tier side losing a valued member of their squad is Southampton, with striker Che Adams expected to depart later this year. The Scottish forward wouldn’t be the first name on Newcastle fans’ shopping list but may be seen as a useful backup at a low cost.
All in all, the names of note are thin on the ground. Newcastle, like most of their top flight counterparts, must watch the purse strings this summer and will be scouring the market for bargain buys.
It is no surprise to see both Kelly and Adarabioyo linked in recent weeks. Two solid Premier League options, who have performed at this level on a consistent basis. It remains to be seen whether any other available alternatives will catch Newcastle bosses’ eyes.
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