Newcastle United's new transfer focus gives hope for future as nine recruits are unveiled

Newcastle United supporters became quite accustomed to disappointing summers during Mike Ashley's 14-year Tyneside tenure. Fatiguing transfer windows saw cheap deals sought, often with hours to spare before the deadline, as the Magpies hierarchy worked unilaterally, sanctioning signings without the blessing of the coach in the dugout.

Those days seem a world away following the change of ownership last October, with the new regime seeking the right the wrongs of the Sports Direct tycoon. Dan Ashworth's arrival is a huge statement to the rest of the Premier League, with everyone at the club now pulling in the same direction when it comes to transfers, the academy and more.

Young players breaking into the first-team was a rare sight under Ashley due to his disregard for the youth setup. However, that may be about to change in the near future, with the club already laying the foundations this summer.

There has been a notable change in strategy on Tyneside in recent months, with Newcastle now going after the best young talent from all four home nations and beyond. Friday will see free agent Jordan Hackett join the club following his release from Tottenham.

The 18-year-old made 22 appearances for Spurs' Under 18s in recent seasons and played for Newcastle Under 23s in a trial as they claimed a 3-2 win over Rangers B last month. The left-back is one of 12 youngsters to be released by Tottenham but has represented England at Under-16 level and earned a call-up to the Under-18 squad in March 2021.

Another teenage target this summer is 16-year-old Tyler Dibling. Southampton's brightest youth prospect showed what he was capable of earlier this year, netting a hat-trick at St. James' Park against Newcastle's Under-23s.

The U16