It was a poor transfer window from Newcastle United.
The squad is arguably weaker than it was at the end of 2020/21.
Three high-earning players in Andy Carroll, Florian Lejeune and Yoshinori Muto all departed.
And Sean Longstaff headed out to Aberdeen on loan.
Henri Saivet and Christian Atsu also left.
The only incoming to the first-team in the end, was Joe Willock.
Santiago Munoz arrived on loan from Santos Laguna, but the 19-year-old will be going into the academy first.
It means big things will be expected of Willock, especially given his £25 million price tag, which Newcastle say is being staggered over the coming years.
He obviously wowed last season during his loan spell, and the pressure is most definitely on him being the only addition.
Watford goalkeeper Ben Foster, 38, has made a video on his popular YouTube channel assessing all 20 Premier League clubs’ transfer windows this summer.
He believes Newcastle have struck gold bringing Willock back.
He said (29:00): “Joe Willock – special mention. I think it’s a fantastic signing. Even though it’s £25 million, it’s still a no-brainer.
“Well done for signing him. It’s a massive loss to Arsenal, fantastic signing if you’re Newcastle.”
Willock unfairly under pressure
21-year-old Willock being Newcastle’s only addition this summer means the spotlight will be on him whether he likes it or not.
Hopefully he will rise to the challenge, but he really shouldn’t have to deal with the additional pressure that comes with being a club’s only signing for big money.
What’s done is done, and Willock – and all Magpies fans – will be hoping he can pick up where he left off last season
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