While there is so much excitement ahead of the new season at Newcastle United, few could doubt that this has been a frustrating summer at times.
Eddie Howe has admitted that himself as Newcastle deal with FFP constraints, albeit positive progress does look to have been made on the pursuits of Harvey Barnes and Tino Livramento.
Still, no one can have it all.
Indeed, the signing of a new left-back was believed to have been on the agenda for the club.
The Daily Mail’s Craig Hope, however, has provided an update.
Newcastle may not be able to afford a new left-back this summer
Taking to Twitter, Hope suggested the club may struggle to afford a new left-back this summer.
With Barnes and Livramento seemingly close to joining and with Sandro Tonali officially signed, the bulk of the budget looks to have been spent.
Allan Saint-Maximin looks close to leaving but Howe has said that particular sale wouldn’t do too much to improve the FFP situation on Tyneside.
When asked about a move for a new left-back amid links with a move for Kieran Tierney of Arsenal, Hope wrote: “Livramento can also play left but, more to the point, so can Trippier, especially in Europe when perhaps more tactical (see his use with England).
“I agree re long-term LB but, given what that would cost, it could be one for a future window.”
A risk for Newcastle
While its understandable that not every position can be strengthened over the course of just window, not having a specialised option there consistently starting could be a worry.
Dan Burn performed well last season but was constantly playing through the pain barrier, such was the lack of cover when Matt Targett was also injured. Howe is also believed to view Burn as a central defender long-term.
Kieran Trippier can operate there but it would be a shame to play him out of his very best position, particularly after a such a strong campaign. The same goes with Livramento, who is predominantly a right-back.
Targett, meanwhile, lost his place to Burn so it’s certainly an area the team are light in.
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