As the summer transfer window approaches, Newcastle United is still actively searching for potential big-name strikers, despite their clear intent to retain the services of Alexander Isak.
The club’s chief executive, Darren Eales, made it clear in a recent media briefing that key players, including Isak, are under long-term contracts and that they have no plans to sell him.
However, scouts are still keeping a close eye on potential targets for the event that the Swedish striker decides to move on.
Delap on Newcastle’s Radar But Faces Strong Competition
Among the potential new forwards being scouted is Ipswich’s 22-year-old Liam Delap, who has been catching the attention of Newcastle’s recruitment team after netting 10 goals this season.
However, competition for his signature is expected to be fierce.
Chelsea is reportedly leading the race for Delap, particularly if Ipswich is relegated, and Manchester United has also shown interest.
Despite these rivals, Newcastle’s sporting director, Paul Mitchell, is making sure the club has contingency plans in place if Isak’s situation changes.
Botman’s Injury Compounds Tough Week for Newcastle
It has been a difficult week for Newcastle head coach Eddie Howe as he faces a series of injury setbacks.
The club’s defensive star, Sven Botman, will undergo knee surgery, which will rule him out of the upcoming Carabao Cup final on March 16.
Although Botman’s injury isn’t believed to be serious, medical staff are closely monitoring his recovery, and he could miss the remainder of the season if further complications arise.
This news follows recent injuries to key players like Anthony Gordon and Lewis Hall, adding to the club’s struggles.
Lewis Hall’s Foot Injury Ends His Season Early
In a heartbreaking turn of events, 20-year-old Lewis Hall will miss the rest of the season due to a serious foot injury.
Despite initially trying to play through the pain, scans revealed a fracture that could not be ignored.
Hall had hoped to feature in the upcoming Wembley final but will now focus on recovery.
His absence means that fellow defender Tino Livramento will likely take on the responsibility of guarding star forward Mo Salah at Wembley, possibly as part of a defensive system that worked well against Arsenal in the semi-final.
Tino Asprilla Makes Surprise Trip to Northern Ireland for 50th Birthday Party
In a heartwarming story from the weekend, Newcastle legend Faustino Asprilla traveled all the way from Colombia to Northern Ireland to attend his former teammate Keith Gillespie’s surprise 50th birthday party.
Gillespie was shocked and delighted to see his old friend, along with other former teammates like John Beresford and Darren Peacock.
Asprilla reminisced about their iconic 1997 Champions League match against Barcelona, where Gillespie provided the assists for Asprilla’s memorable hat-trick, leading to a famous 3-2 victory.
Newcastle Fans React Strongly to Ticket Price Hike
Newcastle’s decision to increase adult season ticket prices by five percent has sparked outrage among fans, especially after a long price freeze that lasted for a decade under the previous ownership.
The club’s Fan Advisory Board (FAB) expressed their “huge disappointment” with the decision, urging the club to reconsider.
Darren Eales defended the hike, stating that it was necessary to sustain the club’s ambitions and ensure financial stability.
However, fans argue that the large TV revenue deals should offset such increases, and some have called for a price freeze across the entire Premier League.
Club Confirms Cup Scheme Will Continue for Next Season
Newcastle has also announced that the Cup Scheme, which determines ticket allocations for the Carabao Cup final, will remain in place for next season.
This scheme, which rewards fans based on their attendance at cup matches, has been critical in securing tickets for major events like the Wembley final.
Fans can expect more clarity on the process for next season, and ticket prices for cup matches are set to remain frozen.
Newcastle’s Financial Performance Shows Promise Despite Losses
Newcastle released their financial results for the 2023-24 season, revealing a record revenue of £320 million. However, the club still posted a loss after tax of £11 million, though this was an improvement over the previous year’s £72 million loss.
Despite these numbers, sports business expert Robbie Millar believes Newcastle is on the right track, building a commercially sustainable model that will eventually close the gap with other Premier League clubs.
Matchday revenue per seat has increased significantly, and there are plans for further improvements, such as stadium expansion, to meet the growing demand for tickets.
Toon Teaser: Name the Eleven Players to Have Played for Newcastle and Barnsley
This week’s Toon Teaser quiz challenges readers to name the eleven players who have played for both Newcastle United and Barnsley since 1992.
Last week’s puzzle focused on players who have played for both Newcastle and Reading, with the correct answers including Andy Carroll, Les Ferdinand, and Jeff Hendrick.
The latest question promises to be even trickier, so fans will need to dig deep into their memories to get all the answers right.