Newcastle United will have to do some spending this summer.
Quite whether or not the FFP limitations the club are working under genuinely afford Newcastle the chance to fully rebuild their squad remains to be seen of course, but it is clear that changes are required.
Indeed, this season has proven a struggle at times, despite some excellent moments throughout it.
Fresh faces will be needed in defence, there is little doubt about that.
Even before Sven Botman’s second serious knee injury of the season, the club were reportedly looking to strengthen there.
The defence has proven porous all season, undermining Newcastle’s attempts to push up the Premier League table.
Since Botman’s injury, Jamaal Lascelles has joined him in having sustained an ACL problem and will also face a significant period out of action, deepening the need for fresh investment there.
Still, Eddie Howe is confident that Newcastle have something of a money saver in their squad.
Eddie Howe confident £13m star can save Newcastle money
This is where Dan Burn comes in.
The defender proved a colossal presence for Newcastle following his £13m move from Brighton in early 2022.
This season, however, he’s come under some criticism, albeit Howe has constantly leapt to his defence.
Burn had largely operated at left-back throughout his time at the club but has stepped into central defence after the two big injuries and was praised for his performance against Everton.
Asked whether that versatility could save Newcastle money this summer, Howe said (via The Chronicle): “It’s always a balance really. You’re looking at which player can fill which position. I always say ‘the more versatile a player, the more valuable they are’.
“Players like Dan, that can play different positions, are vital to us.”
Dan Burn could have his own Harry Maguire moment for Newcastle
It’s difficult not to compare Burn’s story this season to that of Harry Maguire’s.
The Manchester United and England defender was constantly derided after a number of mistakes but now appears to have come through it.
While Burn may not be perfect, he deserves some credit for answering his critics of late.
The post 'Vital: Eddie Howe believes 'valuable' £13m star can now save Newcastle money this summer appeared first on Geordie Boot Boys.