Newcastle United may be facing a difficult summer ahead.
While there have been reports predicting a big rebuild at St James’ Park following such a difficult season this time around, it remains to be seen how far the budget can stretch given FFP issues.
Newcastle, sadly, may have to sell one of their key players.
Indeed, The Athletic recently claimed there was an acceptance behind the scenes that Bruno Guimaraes may have to go in order to fund a huge revamp of Eddie Howe’s squad.
Guimaraes himself isn’t believed to be pushing for a move and has spoken about his desire to stay at the club.
Whether that means much with a £100m release clause amid interest from Paris Saint-Germain is up for debate but, clearly, the midfielder is happy right now.
Alexander Isak is another to have been linked away, although he has also confirmed his intention to stay.
Howe, for his part, is said to want to build around the striker.
Obviously, no one wants to lose these players and there’s little suggestion they are pushing to go. The prospect of having to sell a big name, however, was raised in the January transfer window – such are the limitations on Newcastle’s spending before they bring more money into the club.
With Guimaraes and Isak linked away, TNT Sports pundit Rio Ferdinand was asked which of the two he would sell if he had to. That last part feels particularly important as no one is saying Newcastle should sell these players, it’s a case of deciding who if FFP limitations force them into it.
Rio Ferdinand names who Newcastle should sell – Bruno Guimaraes or Alexander Isak
The former England international chose Guimaraes as the player to sell if it really came down to it.
Speaking to TNT Sports on Saturday and before the 4-0 win over Tottenham, Ferdinand said: “It’s got to be more difficult to find a number nine who can get you goals at this level. I don’t think there’s too many knocking about.
“And then what part of the market are they looking in? They’re not going to be looking at £100-£120m strikers so they’re going to be fishing in a pond where a lot of teams are going to be fishing. So, I’d say it’d be harder to replace an Isak.”
How much money do Newcastle want to make from sales this summer?
According to journalist Ben Jacobs, the club are looking to make between £30m-£50m in player sales this summer.
With the likes of Miguel Almiron, Callum Wilson and Kieran Trippier potentially moving on, perhaps there is hope Newcastle can raise money without cashing in on either Isak or Guimaraes.
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