At the beginning of the summer, Newcastle United fans were met with the similar feeling of takeover heartbreak as the Saudi Arabia group pulled out of a deal. For once, it felt as though things were heading in the right direction; finally, Newcastle would be free of the often tight pockets of Mike Ashley.
Yet, here we are months later. Ashley is still in charge, and no takeover looks likely. Negativity should be the emotion in the northern air right now, but, in a strange turnaround, Newcastle fans will be feeling quite positive. They have just completed deals for Callum Wilson, Ryan Fraser and Jamal Lewis.
Mike Ashley’s stay was meant to be met with further transfer misery, but, instead, it has been met with the outspending of the Premier League champions to turn a summer of heartbreak into one of promise.
Trio of Transfers Signals Change of Mood in Newcastle
A Team Fit for the Top Half?
After finishing a respectable 13th last season, Newcastle, with new signings at the helm, will be hoping for further improvement this season. The main issue last season came in front of goal. Joelinton, £40 million, failed to pay back a single penny in the form of goals.
Now, for half that price, Steve Bruce has a proven Premier League goalscorer at his disposal in the form of Callum Wilson. The Bournemouth man can be unstoppable at his best, scoring 44 goals during his time with Bournemouth in the top flight.
The same can be said for his former Bournemouth teammate, too. Ryan Fraser, off the back of a 14 assist season, may have struggled to repeat his form last season, but, when at his best, he is one of the most productive wingers in the league. If Steve Bruce can help return him to his 18/19 form, then Newcastle will have some player on their hands.
With the new attacking force set to go, the Magpies turned their attention to the defence with the signing of Jamal Lewis. The former Norwich City man has signed a five-year deal in a move rumoured to be around £13.5 million.
The left-back should put an end to Newcastle’s fullback problem for years to come with his attacking talent combining to create a dangerous partnership with Allan Saint-Maximin.
Time to Move Forward?
For years Newcastle have been stuck stagnating in mid-table or perishing towards the relegation zone. Now, however, it seems time to finally move forward and up the table with three new signings at the helm. Callum Wilson will add the goals; Fraser the creativity, and Jamal Lewis the attacking ability down the flank.
It could be a year of improvement for Newcastle and Steve Bruce.
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