The grim Mike Ashley era is finally over at St James’ Park upon the completion of the Saudi Arabian-backed takeover. Newcastle United are expected to compete for the Premier League crown in a few years’ time and the fans, therefore, have every right to dream big under the world’s richest owners.
While many big names are already in discussion over a potential future swoop, former England striker Darren Bent and ex-Magpies defender Warren Barton have identified Manchester City winger Raheem Sterling as a realistic target.
“You have to go big, you start looking at fringe players who may be available. Even someone like Sterling if they throw enough money at it. I think what they need to do – they will sign a big one but they need a few more others. It will make them better.”
Bent told talkSPORT (as quoted by the Manchester Evening News).
Amanda Staveley, the British businesswoman who fronted the deal, is not expecting overnight changes. However, the future of Steve Bruce looks uncertain at Tyneside amid fears of relegation after a dreadful start. They are yet to win a league game this term and placed 19th in the standings with 3 points from 7 games so far. There should be signings during the winter window, but the club must retain their top-flight existence in order to rope in high-profile names prior to the upcoming campaign.
Why Sterling Would Be An Ambitious Yet Achievable Target For Newcastle
Sterling, meanwhile, has lost his assured starting status following the emergence of Phil Foden and the mega-money arrival of Jack Grealish from Aston Villa. He has started twice in 7 league outings and found the net only once against bottom-placed Norwich City.
The 26-year-old Three Lions sensation should welcome a fresh challenge in the coming days and must grab the opportunity if a project is built circling his experience and excellence high up the pitch. His contract at the Etihad would expire in the summer of 2023 and with no renewal talks in place, the Skyblues might prefer to cash in on the wideman with ample attacking options in their ranks.
The Magpies, on the other hand, do not have many prolific names in their current squad. Skipper Jamaal Lascelles has been headstrong in the heart of the backline, whereas ex-Arsenal starlet Joe Willock offers some creative spark from the middle of the park. Allan Saint-Maximin remains the most impressive figure over the past couple of years and the new dawn at Newcastle should see him flourish further in the forthcoming future.
