"More on top of that" - Keith Downie drops exciting claim on PIF summer plan at Newcastle

Newcastle United could sign a new central midfielder and left-back this summer, says Sky Sports reporter Keith Downie.

The Tyneside club have other priorities going into the upcoming transfer window, but Downie thinks they will consider the above positions if there are departures.

Right now, improving Newcastle in attack and at the back is thought to be the priority for manager Eddie Howe.

According to The Telegraph, the Magpies have identified Brentford hitman Ivan Toney as a target for the striker position and are also planning to make a fresh move for Reims forward Hugo Ekitike.

Further back, they have been linked with Chelsea’s Kepa Arrizabalaga and Manchester United’s Dean Henderson. The MailOnline reported last month that they had drawn up a shortlist of shot-stoppers that includes the 27-year-old and 25-year-old as Howe looks to strengthen between the sticks.

The above means that Newcastle could be in for a very busy summer as they aim to avoid another relegation battle next season.

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Downie has told GIVEMESPORT that Newcastle and PIF will add to their priority list if there are outgoings at St James’ Park.

Speaking to GMS, the Sky Sports journalist said: “I think they’ll bring in a centre-back, a forward, like a playmaker, and a striker. They’re also looking at the goalkeeping department, and then it all depends on players going.

“If they lost a centre midfielder or they don’t manage to sign Matt Targett, then they’ll look to bring in more on top of that.”

A whole host of Newcastle players are being linked with exits. According to The Times, as many as seven face the axe, including Miguel Almiron and Dwight Gayle.

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