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While the World Cup unfolds and Newcastle players gain recognition (with flowers for Dan Burn), it’s easy to overlook that the transfer window remains open. As a Newcastle supporter, it might even be better to ignore it entirely.
We have already parted ways with Anthony Gordon, which was anticipated, and then Sandro Tonali, whose exit surprised some. Now, we find ourselves in limbo with Bruno Guimaraes, who, reportedly, has indicated a desire to join Arsenal.
Adding to this tension, there have been several instances where we’ve lost out on players we thought were ours, such as Victor Munoz to Liverpool (a feeling that is increasingly common), and potentially Johan Manzambi to Aston Villa.
This situation reinforces my belief that it’s best not to get my hopes up about transfer speculations until I see an official signing announcement on the club’s Instagram account.
Should we lose Guimaraes as well, it would be a substantial loss of senior talent for the team. What have these players been promised that has not materialized? Is it merely a financial issue? The unanswered questions arising from this transfer window are the same ones that surfaced towards the end of the last season. What is the long-term strategy? What are the aspirations?
Once upon a time, a relegation-stricken Newcastle United still managed to attract talents like Guimaraes, Kieran Trippier and Sven Botman. What has changed? Why can’t we seem to hold onto or draw in key players anymore?
Fans have been urged to assess the summer transfer dealings come September, yet it proves challenging when there is such urgency for visible progress and rival teams successfully tempt players we are reportedly targeting.
At this point, my anxieties for the next season are mounting. Perhaps this is a rebuilding year and everything will turn out fine, but understandably, frustrations are rising among the fanbase regarding the state of the transfer window so far.
Discover more from Charlotte Robson on the True Faith: Newcastle United Podcast