Paul Mitchell sets out January plan as Newcastle approach “new era” – Report
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Some insight into Paul Mitchell’s January transfer plans at Newcastle have come to light as Newcastle edge closer to a “new era” of potential signings and spending in 2025.
It’s been a tricky start for the former Monaco, Spurs and Southampton man, who was criticised last summer after we ended a frustrating window without Marc Guehi or any major signing at first-team level.
A few months on, a shift in approach has been suggested, and there’s hope that this summer could bring a much-needed boost in spending power as our PSR situation begins to ease.
Mitchell’s January approach and big spending likely this summer?
In a report from the i’s Mark Douglas, our Sporting Director has identified a number of exciting overseas talents under the age of 21 heading into the January window.
It’s believed Mitchell is eager to tap into this market, which he knows well following stints in France, Germany and Belgium, and feels foreign talents offer a suitable alternative to Premier League stars who will come at huge cost.
Recent targets like Abdukodir Khusanov and Johan Bakayoko, both excelling in Ligue 1 and the Eredivisie respectively, are viewed as infinitely more attainable than another bid for Marc Guehi or pursuit for Bryan Mbuemo.
A move for Bakayoko may have to wait, with the PSV star’s agent recently claiming he won’t move this month, but it’s believed overseas players are ‘more likely’ to arrive this month than price domestic options.
Douglas writes that more established Premier League stars will more than likely have a “January premium” attached to them in a notoriously tough window to do business, and Mitchell has already made it known that the club must not overpay for players as we continue to battle PSR.
That said, the i report that Newcastle may be in a position to make high-profile moves once again in the summer, with “more headroom” for spending expected heading into the 2025/26 season.
‘Squad cost control’, the new FFP measures being introduced by the Premier League, will still force Mitchell and co. to act responsibly, but it’s believed that smart player sales, our careful spending in 2024 and the likely return of European football will be a much welcome addition to the budget for Eddie Howe’s side.