Takeover talk has been at the forefront of most Newcastle fans’ minds this week, as they all hope that finally their prayers may be answered.
There is still no official word or confirmation from the football club, however, so it is being met with equal portions of doubt and excitement.
But speculation has spiralled as the week has gone on, with claims of non-disclosure agreements being signed; statements being made by the Bin Zayed Group, assuring fans that it will happen; calls for calm and patience from journalists; and even possible sightings of Middle Eastern planes arriving at Newcastle Airport.
One of the most discussed topics on social media has been just how much wealth the Group has, and how much they will be able to invest in the club – particularly on new players.
Although no one really knows their exact worth, or investment plans, it would be fair to assume that it will be a hugely more significant amount than Mike Ashley permits – even if it is far from the mind-boggling figures at Manchester City’s disposal.
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Some fans – with their tongue placed firmly in their cheeks, it must be said – have hopes of attracting the likes of Kylian Mbappe. That said, with playful intent or not, it has led bookies to suddenly install Newcastle as second favourites to land one of the most sought-after players in the world.
We thought we would look at some realistic potential signings who, just a week ago, would have had fans thinking we did not stand a chance of getting.
Harry Wilson (Liverpool) – Right Winger – 22-years-old
Newcastle were credited with an interest as recently as last weekend, according to reports. But the talented young winger – a target for a host of clubs – looked to be out of Newcastle’s range. A potential takeover would change all that, however, with the player suddenly becoming a legitimate target.
The Welsh prospect had a fantastic season on loan at Derby last term, which culminated in a Wembley appearance at the Championship play-off final.
Had the Rams won that game, Wilson would have been high on their agenda for another loan, or permanent deal. But remaining in the Championship has almost certainly seen them miss their chance to see him return next season.
At a reported valuation of £25 million, the player seemed an unlikely addition to the Magpies’ squad. But suddenly he could potentially be one of the first to arrive following any new ownership.
He would certainly be a player that would excite fans, and – along with Paul Dummett, Sean Longstaff and Miguel Almiron – could become a player that Newcastle could build a team around for the coming years.
Ryan Fraser (AFC Bournemouth) – Left Winger – 25-years-old
Another winger that was said to be on the Magpies’ radar. But with Bournemouth said to be holding out for an eye-watering £30m for the Scotland international, Newcastle were never seen as serious contenders for him.
Big transfer fees, coupled with an executive with better negotiating skills than Lee Charnley, may mean these players are now within reach.
With a change in direction for the club, and a scrapping of the current, frustrating transfer policy, would see better times lying ahead for fans.
Arsenal are currently thought to be front-runners in the chase for the winger, but if a sale is concluded quickly, a late approach from Newcastle could see him move North.
Another player that would be likely to have fans out of their seats, he is sure to be another hit with Geordie fans.
Matt Ritchie was reportedly to be used as part of any deal, but with money not being such an issue, Newcastle could be prepared to keep him, and let the two Scotsmen battle it out for a starting spot.
Joelinton (Hoffenheim) – Striker – 22-years-old
Rumours have lingered for quite a while about interest in the Brazilian striker from Newcastle.
Hoffenheim have reportedly said it will take a bid of at least £40m to make them listen to any offer for their prized asset.
At just 22, he would unlikely arrive as the finished article, but should Rafa commit to stay at St James’ Park, he could not ask for a better coach to nurture him and make the most of his undoubted talent.
With the player having said a couple of months ago that he is “happy” at the German side, and the club seemingly under no pressure to sell, it may be a tough one for Newcastle to pull off.
But it is likely that prospective new owners will want to build a quality squad, which would surely bring an end to the current regime’s enforced low-end wage structure.
So if Newcastle show an intent to challenge for European places, and can dangle a six-figured weekly salary in front of the player and his agents, then a deal could still happen.
Joelinton scored 11 goals and had a further nine assists, from 35 appearances for Hoffenheim last season, and the thought of him in a black and white shirt next season would be a tantalising prospect for the Toon faithful.