Predicting Newcastle’s 20-21 lineup based on latest transfer news

It is way too early to determine how Newcastle United’s lineup will look, but here is a preview based on the latest transfer rumors.

The mood on Tyneside took a major dive over the last few days as a result of the PIF, the Reuben brothers, and Amanda Staveley withdrawing their bid to purchase Newcastle United. The Toon Army were hoping for some major investments this summer, but instead they should expect to see some bargain hunting.

Newcastle United need to make a few signings to upgrade the squad across the pitch, but the top priorities for the club involve signing a striker, winger, central midfielder, and wing-back.

The Toon have not been linked with many players in recent weeks, but a few names could be headed to St. James’ Park soon.

Ryan Fraser, who is available for free, and his former teammate Callum Wilson are both frequently linked with a move up north. The duo scored 21 goals and provided 24 assists for Bournemouth two seasons ago, and that level of production could push Newcastle United ahead of most mid-table rivals.

Both players experienced a dip in form this past season with a combined tally of nine goals and five assists, but the entire team struggled in a campaign that led to relegation. It would not be a surprise to see them join Newcastle United as they would immediately be handed starting roles.

There is no news in terms of potential new faces in the middle of the park, but fans would not mind seeing Jonjo Shelvey and Isaac Hayden pick up where they left off in their respective positions.

With Matty Longstaff gone, and Nabil Bentaleb most likely not returning, the Magpies will need to find someone who can add depth and promote competition.

At wing-back, specifically on the right flank, Newcastle United have some major decisions to make. DeAndre Yedlin essentially has one foot out the door, and Emil Krafth lacks the quality to start on a regular basis.

Jetro Willems was a solid loanee, but there has been no mention of a return from the front office after his ACL injury in January. Danny Rose was brought in to take his place and, for the most part, performed well.

Over the last few days, Brazilian left-back Rogerio, who currently plays for Sassuolo in Italy, has been linked with a move to Newcastle United.

It is unknown how much Sassuolo’s asking price is for the 22-year-old, but the Magpies know that Rose is available for an affordable fee of £5m.

Seeing that Ashley has only allotted £35m for the transfer budget this summer, one can only assume that Rose will be back as a starter.

That being said, based on the rumors discussed above, and assuming Bruce sticks with the 4-2-3-1 shape, here is what Newcastle United’s starting eleven could look like next season:

Dubravka (GK); Manquillo (LB), Fernandez (CB), Lascelles (CB), Rose (RB); Shelvey (CDM), Hayden (CDM); Saint-Maximin (MID), Almiron (MID), Fraser (MID); Wilson (ATT).