
Newcastle United may not sign an out-an-out left-back in the summer transfer window, according to Chris Waugh of The Athletic.
The Magpies are expected to operate on a tight budget in the summer as they are looking to meet the PSR rules. They will have to be smart in their transfer dealings and may refrain from big-money signings.
Waugh writes that “the noises at this stage” coming out of St James’ Park are that Newcastle needs a proper centre-back, a striker, and a goalkeeper this summer. The Magpies may also look to sign a new midfielder as well if someone is available at a reasonable price.
Dan Burn has done incredibly well playing as a left-back while Lewis Hall is developing and getting more game time. With a proper pre-season under his belt, he can become a regular member of the first team next season.
What Chris Waugh said about signing a new left-back
The journalist wrote: “The noises at this stage do not make left-back a ‘big priority’ — especially when at least one forward and centre-half is required, while a goalkeeper is being sought — and that is because Newcastle have several options there.
“Howe does not share your perspective on Burn as a left-back and the Geordie was part of the joint-meanest defence in the Premier League playing there last season, while Hall is developing and getting increased game time, with a full pre-season under the coaching staff expected to benefit the 19-year-old.”
Can Lloyd Kelly solve problems at Newcastle?
Apart from Burn and Hall, the likes of Tino Livramento and Kieran Trippier can play on both flanks. Emil Krafth is also expected to stay. Therefore, if Burn is asked to play the centre-back role in the absence of Jamaal Lascelles and Sven Botman.
One player who could solve the problem is Llyod Kelly. The Bournemouth defender has been linked with a move to St James’ Park this summer, and he is someone Eddie Howe desperately wants.
Howe knows him very well having signed him at Bournemouth, and he can operate as both a centre-back and in a left-back role. Kelly will be a free agent at the end of the season, and he could be one of the players in demand this summer.
Given the financial constraints of the club, Howe has admitted that free agents are attractive propositions, and Kelly could be a fantastic signing for the Magpies.
