Inside Newcastle United's frustrating transfer window as clubs ramp up prices for centre-forward

Newcastle United boss Eddie Howe's frustration at the summer transfer window's inflated prices was telling as he held his Press conference pitchside in Saalfelden on Friday afternoon.

It was a million miles away from Rafa Benitez's political speech in 2018 when he made it clear in no uncertain terms that United were in trouble if they didn't up their game in the transfer market. But what Howe did underline delicately was that Newcastle definitely need a few more signings if they are going to get anywhere near matching expectations of a top 10 finish this term.

Things weren't going to plan against 1860 Munich as they tried to rattle Newcastle in the first half on a baking hot day in Austria and the friendly had more of a cup tie feel against lower league opposition about it as their boss Michael Köllner prowled the touchline and baited over zealous Reuf Salihovic into issuing a couple of yellow cards.

United had the luxury of bringing on 10 subs to change things and in the second half, with Bruno Guimaraes and Sven Botman on the field, Newcastle controlled the game. Bruno was only on 29 minutes and picked up an assist and a goal.

If Howe can land a couple more players as good as Bruno then there will be nothing to worry about next season. And it's in that final third where the concerns lie.

Callum Wilson and Allan Saint-Maximin are match winners when at the top of their game, but what if one of them gets injured or they have an off day? A winger and another striker are required if Newcastle are to be serious top 10 contenders.

Howe doesn't really do rants but he spoke truthfully about the situation in what could be read as a plea to sporting director Dan Ashworth and incoming CEO Darren Eales. He said: "We have