Newcastle United are in a tight situation this summer. Eddie Howe will need back-up strikers for Alexander Isak, as Calum Wilson is on the verge of leaving and the season is expected to be demanding. However, there are more important transfer issues to address elsewhere, and with limited finances, United will not want to waste on someone who may not earn a first-team spot, at least initially.

Liam Delap of Ipswich seems to meet the majority of the criteria. He’s young, full of potential, and can leave Portman Road for £30 million. However, Chelsea won the race to sign the England Under-21 star, so it’s back to the drawing board.

There are lots of options available, but you must pay a high price for proven quality or take a chance on a younger player who has something to show. They must be willing to compete for a position behind Isak. What are Newcastle’s alternatives for striking this delicate balance? Here’s how it looks.

Big-money deal

There are plenty of high-profile prospects to spend money on this summer. The difficulty is that no one will want to play second fiddle to Isak, and United does not want to invest a lot of money in this area. Eddie Howe cautioned against relying on high-profile transfers, yet these players are highly sought after.

Benjamim Sesko has been on United’s radar for at least three years and might move to the Premier League with Arsenal in a deal worth approximately £90 million. Similarly, Joao Pedro was a striker who United attempted to sign before joining Brighton. He could depart this summer, although bids of more over £60 million are likely for the Brazilian.

Hugo Ekitike has begun his career in Germany with Eintracht Frankfurt after rejecting a move to United in 2022 in favour of PSG. Liverpool are apparently interested in the French striker, with an £85 million deal in the works.

According to The Chronicle, United would prioritise other transfer priorities over bringing in a high-profile striker to St. James’ Park. It would be difficult to justify a large investment in a guy who will serve as Isak’s backup, so don’t expect a high-end contract.

Free agents

Jonathan David and Dominic Calvert-Lewin are two players from different ends of the spectrum. David, a Canadian striker, has received numerous offers since revealing that he will leave Lille when his contract ends at the end of the month. United have kept an eye on the frontman, who impressed in the Champions League for the French club, but he appears to be on his way to Serie A, with Napoli leading the race.

 

Newcastle enquired about Calvert-Lewin a year ago, but Everton’s valuation forced United to withdraw from the negotiations. He is now ready to leave the Toffees for free.

. . but will the Magpies still be interested. He had another injury-hit season, but has the Premier League calibre, and could be happy to take his chances when Isak is rested or injured.

According to The Chronicle, despite David’s departure, Calvert-Lewin has the potential to save United £20-30 million.