Eddie Howe has acknowledged that Newcastle United is unlikely to sign a right winger in this transfer window as the club focuses its resources on securing Crystal Palace and England defender Marc Guehi, a deal that could reach up to £70 million.
Howe has effectively ruled out bolstering the right side of Newcastle’s attack, where Miguel Almirón and Jacob Murphy currently compete for a starting position. Instead, the Magpies are concentrating on landing Guehi. Which may be their only significant signing in the final days of the transfer window.
When asked if Newcastle could manage to sign both a center-back and a winger, Howe candidly replied, “Probably not, no.”
He emphasized the importance of retaining key players as a measure of success, adding, “Keeping players is a success. Incomings? That work is still going on behind the scenes, everyone trying their best.”
Regarding the ongoing pursuit of Guehi, Howe remained tight-lipped, stating, “I am not going to comment on individual players.”
Howe also highlighted the complexities of making transfer decisions, particularly under financial constraints and the need to adhere to long-term strategic goals. “There’s no problem with backing or support. There never has been. It’s the rules we’re trying to abide by, and every decision we make has a consequence for the future. We have to make sure we’re making wise decisions and not leaving ourselves in a vulnerable position down the line,” Howe explained.
He stressed that transfer windows are often judged too quickly, saying, “It only takes one player to make the window a success or failure, however people view it. Time is always the best judge. Sometimes not signing a player, or avoiding the wrong signing, is just as successful. So, hopefully that makes sense. Let’s see what happens.”
Newcastle is also keen to retain Kieran Trippier, who Howe praised for his leadership during their recent match against Bournemouth. “Absolutely, look at his performance on Sunday—it was of someone focused and ready to help the team. Kieran’s experience had a galvanizing effect on the team. He is in a good place,” Howe added.
As the transfer window rapidly approaches its final hours, Newcastle’s primary focus remains on making strategic decisions that will not only benefit the club in the immediate future but also ensure long-term success. Consequently, the potential acquisition of Guehi has now taken precedence in their transfer plans.
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