Newcastle United will definitely finish in the top 10 this season, but need someone like Ivan Toney to make it into the top six.
That’s the view of Peterborough United chairman Darragh MacAnthony, who has spoke about the Magpies on his podcast The Hard Truth.
Eddie Howe’s side started the season in blistering fashion, beating Nottingham Forest 2-0. Newcastle were relentless, totally dominating the newly promoted side.
The result and performance has given fans huge confidence for the new season. However, more signings are required with Howe needing more options in attack.
One player we have been linked with his Toney from Brentford, and MacAnthony believes someone like him can catapult Newcastle towards Europe.
MacAnthony on Newcastle needing to sign Toney
Newcastle finished in 11th last season, and have been tipped as outsiders to challenge for Europe this season. However, MacAnthony doesn’t think that is possible – unless someone like Toney joins.
“They’re definitely going to be top 10, but if they want to be top six they are probably going to need to spend £50million on a Toney type signing,” he said.
“With all due respect to Chris Wood he’s not going to score 15 goals for Newcastle.
“But £50million on a Toney, and of course I’m saying this as I have sell-ons, but that kind of striker he’s getting 16-25 goals with some very good players in that Newcastle team.”
Newcastle won’t spend that much on a striker
As MacAnthony says, a move to Newcastle for Toney would be good for him. Peterborough have a sell-on clause for the 26-year-old, who left the Posh to join Brentford in 2020.
They will reportedly receive 30% of whatever Brentford get for the striker. If he goes for £50million, that means £15million is coming Peterborough’s way. No wonder he’s so keen for Toney to return to St James’ Park!
Is Toney the kind of player who can propel us into the top six? Potentially. He’s proven he can score goals in the Premier League. He got 12 last season, and has already opened his account for the new campaign.
Adding him to our attack would seriously boost our options, with Callum Wilson currently our main striker. Chris Wood hasn’t scored enough goals since his move, which is why Howe is keen for another forward to arrive.
But a big money move for Toney feels incredibly unlikely. We need someone who can act as backup to Wilson. There’s no way Toney is coming back to Newcastle to be second choice. And given the way we’ve spent money this summer, there’s no way we are forking out £50million on a backup striker.
If Newcastle want to push for a top six finish, our big investment should come on the right wing rather than up front.
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