It’s been a strange start to the transfer window for Newcastle United.
While Newcastle have actually signed three players this summer, surely few would doubt it’s been a relatively slow start.
Indeed, Lloyd Kelly’s signing is obviously a positive but the other two additions thus far have come in goal.
Furthermore, both Odysseas Vlachodimos and John Ruddy look like back-ups to Nick Pope more than anything, so it hardly feels as if the first-team has been significantly strengthen just yet.
Clearly, there’s a long way to go in the market and there are reportedly plans to sign a new right-winger and a central defender before long.
Now, Fabrizio Romano has shared more insight.
Fabrizio Romano shares what Newcastle’s priority is in the transfer market right now
The transfer insider has been speaking to GIVEMESPORT and again suggested AC Milan’s Malick Thiaw as a target.
Still, he suggests the German international features on a shortlist of three to four names when it comes to strengthening at the back.
He adds that three to four positions could yet be bolstered but that Burnley’s James Trafford is in fact the priority target in goal despite the signings of Vlachodimos and Ruddy.
“[They are] also in for a centre-back, because they had some sort of conversation with AC Milan for Malick Thiaw – the German centre-back,” he said.
“He remains one of the players they appreciate, but I’m told they have a proper shortlist with three or four names for the new centre-back.
“I think Newcastle will be busy maybe covering three to four positions including the goalkeeper, with James Trafford still being their priority target there.”
Newcastle need to ramp up their business soon
Pre-season has started for some of Eddie Howe’s squad and the Premier League opener at home to Southampton is little over a month away.
Kelly’s addition is obviously a boost but the other signings don’t feel likely to have too much of an impact on first-team matters.
Even if Trafford were to arrive soon, it’s debatable as to whether or not he would dislodge Pope straight away.
With that in mind, getting a deal for someone like Thiaw – who is said to be the dream signing of the club’s recruitment staff – is surely a better use of time…
Receive a digest of our best Newcastle content each week direct to your mailbox
