‘Evolution, not revolution’ at Newcastle, says Eddie Howe

NEWCASTLE: Eddie Howe has warned that UEFA financial fair play rules mean it will be a case of evolution, not revolution at Newcastle United this summer. Big names continue to be linked with the Magpies on a daily basis, with their Premier League status close to being secured for next season. While interest is retained in high-profile names, such as Sven Botman, of Lille, and Darwin Nunez, of Benfica, United’s summer will not be defined by one or two “eye-catching” pieces of business.

Arab News understands that United and Howe will focus their summer business in much the same manner as they did in January, aiming for a general leveling up of the quality of players in the squad in a number of key positions. It is believed the forward department, and finding top-level competition for Chris Wood and Callum Wilson, are at the top of the club’s summer window priorities. However, any talk of predefined budgets, as per January, is wide of the mark.

“I am happy with this squad while acknowledging that time never stands still,” said head coach Howe. “You have to continue to improve and evolve, so I have no problem looking outward and saying we do need certain things, but I do not think it will be the revolution that everyone thinks it will be. It can’t be because we are under financial restrictions.

“It is not just a case of signing anybody, and that would never be the way I work anyway because every individual has to fit within the structure of the team and make the team better, not just a very good individual. That is fundamental to our future. “So, for all those different reasons, I do not think it will ever be a case of wholesale changes.” UEFA’s financial fair play rules are likely to limit the Magpies’ spending power this