Newcastle United have finally established their new-look boardroom with the aim of propelling the club to greater heights. The appointment of David Hopkinson as CEO was swiftly followed by Ross Wilson taking up the role of sporting director, as the Magpies continue their swift progression under their Saudi-backed owners. Wilson’s arrival will inject a new dynamism into the club’s transfer strategy.
The former Nottingham Forest and Rangers man has already engaged in high-level discussions with head coach Eddie Howe. Although he observed training this week, his responsibilities will extend to future transfer windows. This comes after the United head coach had to shoulder much of the responsibility himself following Paul Mitchell’s departure in the summer. Following the £130m sale of Alexander Isak to Liverpool, the Toon have funds available for investment in upcoming transfer windows and there is still scope for further squad strengthening.
Express Sport looks at five signings Wilson could look to make in the next two windows…
Kobbie Mainoo
The young midfielder appears poised to depart Manchester United, either in January or during the summer transfer window. The Red Devils are reportedly interested in a £60million deal to sign Crystal Palace’s Adam Wharton.
Mainoo was on the brink of leaving Old Trafford last summer, but decided to stay and fight for his place. However, under Ruben Amorim’s management, he hasn’t had as many opportunities as he’d hoped, and a transfer could be on the cards.
Newcastle might be in the market for additional midfielders, and Mainoo fits their recruitment strategy perfectly – he’s young, English, and has experience in the Premier League. If they decide to pursue him, they won’t be the only ones interested in the England international.
Elliot Anderson
Many would be thrilled to see the local lad return to St James’ Park, after Newcastle were forced to sell him to Forest in 2024 to comply with PSR requirements. Wilson played a part in that deal and could instantly win over the club’s fans by bringing Anderson back to Tyneside.
However, it’s rumoured that Man City and Chelsea are also keen on the England midfielder, and could potentially make a £75m bid for the Whitley Bay-born star.
Marc Guehi
Newcastle still haven’t completely ruled out the possibility of signing England defender Guehi from Crystal Palace, whose contract expires next summer.
Liverpool thought they had secured a deal on deadline day, only for Palace to back out. While Arne Slot will likely make another bid for the 25-year-old, several other clubs will also be in the running.
Guehi will have plenty of options when it comes to choosing his next club, but Newcastle will ensure they’re in contention.
Josh King
The Magpies have been keeping tabs on Fulham’s rising star, who is having an impressive season under Marco Silva at Craven Cottage.
Manchester United have also been monitoring the versatile 18-year-old, whose ability to play in multiple positions would certainly appeal to Eddie Howe and his team.
Igor Thiago
Thiago has been on chief scout Steve Nickson’s radar for a while now. After overcoming injury problems, he’s finally showing his potential with Brentford.
At just 24 years old, the Brazilian is one that Newcastle will keep a close eye on this season, with his speed and stature being key attributes. United have already splashed out on Nick Woltemade and Yoane Wissa this year, but they could still make another move to bolster their attacking options.