As the 2023/24 Premier League season draws ever closer, Eddie Howe’s Newcastle United will be looking to replicate the success they enjoyed in the previous campaign.
However, lightning will not strike twice unless the Mags are adequately prepared. How can Newcastle keep up in the never-ending Premier League arms race?
Currently, we feel there are two positions where Newcastle United need to improve. They still need to sign a quality left-back – additionally, they would benefit from adding another winger to their team.
While the departing Allan Saint-Maximin only played a minor role in last season’s campaign, he was a very talented player nonetheless. With Champions League fixtures on the horizon, the Toon will need to bolster their ranks in order to keep their squad fresh.
Who could Newcastle sign at left-back?
While Newcastle have an abundance of players who can fill in at the left-back position – Jamal Lewis, Paul Dummett, Matty Targett and Dan Burn – but none of them stand out as quality options.
Enter Carlos Augusto. Not only is he a wonderful full-back who has been Monza’s best player for two seasons running, he is also entering the final year of his current contract.
While Monza will be keen to tie him down to a new deal, the Toon could turn his head if they register an interest – he is far too good to be playing in Serie A’s midtable.
How can they improve on the wings?
Newcastle have some excellent options on both wings – Miguel Almiron and Harvey Barnes both stand out. Despite this, the Toon could still stand to improve out wide.
We would suggest Wolverhampton Wanderers’ Daniel Podence as a strong depth option. While his goals and assists output isn’t spectacular, his technical ability and blistering pace speak for themselves.
Like Carlos Augusto, he too is in the final year of his contract. Due to this, should Newcastle opt to make a move for him, he wouldn’t break the bank.
Moreover, Podence is only 27 years of age – while this isn’t young, theoretically, he is on the cusp of entering his prime years. As such, if Newcastle sign him now, they will get the best out of him.
