Newcastle’s transfer misery after missing out on 4 of Eddie Howe’s top targets

Newcastle are closing in on a deal for Burnley goalkeeper James Trafford, finally ending an extremely frustrating summer window which has seen them fail to land a number of top targets

Newcastle’s summer of frustration is threatening to derail what is a pivotal window at St James’ Park. After ending their long trophy drought and securing a return to the Champions League, hopes of a transformative window had been raised.

After initially spending big under their Saudi ownership, PSR restrictions have meant three relatively quiet windows on the spin. But now finding themselves in a significantly stronger position in that regard, money is available – and Howe made it clear he wanted signings quickly.

“Speed is key for us, which I’ve reiterated many times internally,” he said before the window opened. “Speed is key because we have to be dynamic, we have to be ready to conclude things very quickly, because good players don’t hang around for long.

“That is what we will be trying, but the reality is it is not always in your hands. We will be doing our best to do things early.”

And while the intent has been there for Newcastle, the execution has been lacking. As the calendar turns to July, the Toon are still waiting for their first arrival, although goalkeeper James Trafford is closing in on a move.

READ MORE: Transfer news LIVE: Liverpool close on Guehi deal, Gyokeres snubs Sporting return, Man Utd’s Onana exitREAD MORE: Joao Pedro given immediate Chelsea headache as £60million man faces tough decision

It could have been a very different summer, however, had they landed some of the targets they had shortlisted.

Matheus Cunha

It often felt like a formality that the Wolverhampton Wanderers talisman would swap Molineux for Old Trafford. The Brazilian made it very clear he wanted to leave the Black Country, with the club equally willing to reciprocate.

But according to reports back in April, it was Newcastle who also made him their top target. With the lure of European football it was hoped they would be at the front of the queue. But the forward instead signed for the Red Devils – labelling it a dream come true.

Bryan Mbeumo

A very similar story. And a story which appears almost certain to have the same ending.

As with Cunha, Newcastle joined the queue for the services of the Brentford forward along with Manchester United and Tottenham.

It is understood Newcastle pulled the plug on a deal due to the Cameroon international’s wage demands. Nevertheless, it appears Mbeumo’s preference was always to head to Manchester.

Liam Delap

Despite being part of an Ipswich side that were relegated, Delap earned himself plenty of admirers after an impressive season at Portman Road. Howe was one of those, going public with his praise for the striker.

“He’s got big strengths, very strong, powerful runner. Certainly knows where the goal is. I think he’s had a really good season. He’s always had a lot of potential.”

Delap held talks with a number of clubs, Newcastle amongst them, before ultimately deciding to join Chelsea in a £30m deal.

Joao Pedro

Newcastle’s latest transfer defeat, is set to chalk up another victory for Chelsea. The Brighton forward is now closing in on a move to Stamford Bridge with a medical imminent.

But Newcastle made a big play for Pedro – only to see a £50m offer rebuffed by the Seagulls.

Chelsea then upped their bid to £58m, getting the green light to pursue a move and to leave Howe facing even more misery.

The silver lining

It’s not all bad news though…honestly. James Trafford is expected to sign for the Magpies. The deal for the goalkeeper is understood to be at a very advanced stage and a transfer in the region of £30m could be completed soon.

Trafford was a priority target for Howe and Newcastle…that doesn’t always mean a deal can get done, however. But the Magpies boss will be hoping that Trafford’s arrival sees their luck change and more players can be secured before the start of next season.

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