Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe has issued a clear message ahead of the summer transfer window: the club must strengthen their first-team squad without sacrificing key players like Alexander Isak. Speaking ahead of Saturday’s clash with Manchester City, Howe emphasized the importance of retaining the Magpies’ star talent while adding fresh quality to the squad.
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Howe revealed that this summer will mark two years since Newcastle last signed a player who could immediately slot into the starting XI. “We have to try and keep our best players,” he said. “That’s crucial for our short-term and long-term success. We need to keep the group together and we need to add the other way.”
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Howe was adamant about keeping Isak, who has been in sensational form this season with 17 Premier League goals. The Swedish striker is set to face Erling Haaland at the Etihad this weekend, and when asked who he’d prefer, Howe didn’t hesitate. “I love working with Alex, and I wouldn’t swap him for anyone,” he quoted, as per Dailymail.
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Newcastle’s scouts are already working tirelessly to identify targets, with a right-winger reportedly at the top of their wishlist. Celtic’s Nicolas Kuhn is among the players being monitored. However, Howe stressed that recruitment must not come at the expense of losing stars like Isak, Bruno Guimaraes, or Anthony Gordon.
The Magpies have been constrained by Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR) in recent windows, but this summer promises more flexibility. Howe is determined to build on the current squad’s progress, ensuring Newcastle remain competitive in the Premier League and beyond.