It’s fair to argue that Newcastle United supporters anticipated the transfer window to unfold differently, but the prevailing mood throughout the summer has largely been disappointment and irritation.
Eddie Howe’s trophy-winning side, after all, demonstrated that they could consistently disrupt the ‘big six’ dominance in the Premier League, having now earned Champions League qualification in two of the past three campaigns, also triumphing in the Carabao Cup final over Liverpool in March.
Still, further reinforcement is required. Anthony Elanga injects pace down the right flank, recording 23 sprints during his debut against Aston Villa on Saturday, reaching a top speed of 32.7km/h, according to Sofascore, making him the second-quickest player on the pitch, trailing only his rapid teammate Anthony Gordon.
Yet Alexander Isak was glaringly missing from the centre-forward role as the never-ending saga continues for the Liverpool-linked striker. It must be settled, though Newcastle would be naïve to concentrate solely on number nine with other areas still demanding attention.
After securing Ramsey from Aston Villa for an initial £39m fee over the weekend, Newcastle have now strengthened across the field; Malick Thiaw has bolstered the defence, loan arrival Aaron Ramsdale brings depth in goal and the aforementioned Elanga contributes searing speed on the right wing.
The English playmaker praised Howe’s “ability to improve players” as a vital factor behind his decision to move to St. James’ Park, and indeed, his quality and work rate indicates he will settle seamlessly into the squad’s framework.
With Sean Longstaff departing for Leeds United earlier in the window, Ramsey supplies both depth and dynamism in midfield, reducing strain on Howe’s dependable central trio.
At 24, his creativity and energy could be decisive if utilized correctly within Howe’s plans. The manager’s reputation for nurturing talent validates the transfer, and it might prove inspired should Ramsey link up with Newcastle’s primary striking target.
According to Daily Mail’s trusted Craig Hope, Newcastle reopened negotiations with Brentford on Monday as they aim to finalise a deal for Yoane Wissa.
Despite rumours suggesting Brentford raised the price for the 28-year-old attacker from £50m to £60m, the Magpies are determined to secure the move.
Nonetheless, there’s little willingness to commit £50m for the DR Congo forward, much less exceed that figure. Hope maintains that the next few hours could be vital in shaping the outcome of this chase.
Of course, the lingering issue is that failing to sign Wissa lessens the chances of losing Isak, though reconciling with the unsettled Sweden striker seems improbable, as he refuses the idea of reintegration.
And Wissa is a proven Premier League performer expected to provide goals for a Newcastle side needing a reliable finisher..
Interestingly, only ten of his 19 league goals came with his stronger right foot, while he added five with his left and four with headers, reflecting an aerial strength that Gordon and Elanga would welcome.
Ramsey’s flexibility makes him an easy fit for Newcastle, as he is effective on the left too. He tallied 17 goals and 19 assists at Aston Villa, and though troubled by injuries recently, proved his class in 2022/23 with 13 league goal contributions as a rising prospect.
His high-energy style aligns with Howe’s preference for quick transitions, and with someone like Wissa leading the line to convert chances, Newcastle may once again replicate last season’s achievements by regaining a Champions League spot.
Below, Ramsey is pictured charging through West Ham United’s backline to net a well-constructed goal for Aston Villa.
By utilizing Wissa’s hold-up strength, this could evolve into a regular and productive combination for Newcastle, especially as FBref’s analysis showed the Brentford forward produced metrics similar to Isak last season, sharp in finishing and tidy in distribution.
Likewise, Ramsey can reciprocate, having provided five Premier League assists last term despite starting just 19 matches. Sofascore recorded his 87% passing accuracy and five major chances created too.
Also winning 59% of ground duels, Ramsey epitomises a top-quality performer under Howe, and with careful rotation to prevent injury setbacks, the Englishman could blossom, combining with Wissa to reshape Newcastle’s attack while preserving continuity from prior success.
And Wissa? The seasoned forward arrives with the guarantee of goals and the expectation of smooth offensive play. He formed a deadly strike duo with Bryan Mbeumo at Brentford, with Thomas Frank even labelling the pair “unplayable” on occasion.
Although the 2024/25 campaign stands as Wissa’s greatest so far, his peak years might still lie ahead if he completes a transfer to Newcastle in the near future.
Howe has assembled a squad of players each contributing varied qualities, yet all united by tactical sharpness and athletic drive.
With Wissa potentially stepping in to replace Isak as the attacking spearhead, the coming season could yield even greater success for the Magpies.