Newcastle United Weighs Key Player Sales, Pursues £30m Target Amid Champions League Push

Newcastle United is actively shaping its squad for the upcoming season, with manager Eddie Howe involved in key transfer decisions. The club has already secured young talent Antonio Cordero and is reportedly in talks to sign goalkeeper James Trafford from Burnley for around £30 million, a player Howe highly values to compete with current No. 1 Nick Pope. Financially stable, Newcastle may consider selling players like Harvey Barnes and Joe Willock to further boost their transfer budget despite Howe's preference to keep them. Leeds United has shown interest in Newcastle midfielder Sean Longstaff, whose future at the club is uncertain due to limited playing time and UEFA Champions League squad regulations requiring club-trained players. Meanwhile, Newcastle legend Steve Howey has ranked the club's most skilful players, naming Peter Beardsley as the top, with Hatem Ben Arfa also making the top five for his remarkable dribbling and vision despite inconsistency. These developments highlight Newcastle's ambitions on and off the pitch as they prepare for a challenging season ahead.