STM

I wasn't really referring to age, more what he's capable of when fit.

Yes and his opinion is that he backs Eddie's decision making. Sometimes it's wiser to trust those who know better.

Considering his potential 6/8m

Reading between the lines, it looks as though the plan is Harrison and a young forward. Nice to know we are still targeting two positions.

I think Howe would happily cash in on Lewis.

At least with Harrison, the player will be putting pressure on the selling club.

Not from a squad place perspective but freeing up wages might be important to incomings.

If they think they can get him for 25m, I think that's a fair investment. Once you start talking 30 you think of how much we paid for Botman and Bruno. Also Leeds signed a right footed left winger right?

Hendrick Gayle Clark Hayden All gone by August is solid work. By my estimation, Matty Longstaff next and Fede, Darlow and Ritchie are three possibles. In reality, not too fussed about who moves on from here on out.

So here's a breakdown of what I watch: JLA: Great for analysis, he really trys to deep dive into issues. He also covers all PL clubs and IMO is really likeable. The Kick Off: Best part of this show is that they can express their views unlike sky and can have some real back and forth. Expertise is ok, Lawrence, Adam McKola and TG often give some balanced points. AWSF + Extra tyne: My favourite because its all Newcastle. They get the balance perfect and are all really likeable, often get decent guests too. Pod on The Tyne: OK so Taylor is fairly annoying but Chris Waugh and George Caulkin are genuinely decent journalists and during the season it's a decent listen and recap on the week. And very occasionally Loaded Mag: Actually get really good guests but the format for watching is terrible. Too much stuff on the screen, the presenters aren't very likeable either but passable.

Again it's worth reminding people that clubs and agents meet all the time. If we have made an enquiry, it's perfectly normal for an agent to hop on a plane for talks. I'm sure plenty are done by phone or video call etc but a flight is worth it if you are talking about a 20m deal. It confirms that we are almost certainly interested.

Quite funny watching the locals scramble around.

Much prefer this approach to Cornet, Dennis, Sarr or even Harrison. In terms of risk, these young players will likely have sell on value.

Note the player himself isn't in Newcastle, which means it's unlikely we have agreed any fee. At this stage, we are likely sounding out his availability. What I will say, he's is absolutely the sort of player we are looking for. Young, talented but not without experience.

Agents meet clubs all the time, the difference is that most of them don't post it on IG and nearly all of them you wouldn't know if you passed them in the street. Hendersons entourage were in Newcastle, he went to forest, we signed Pope.

As things stand, squads are similar but I think Gerrard is a shite manager and Howe is class, so I don't see them finishing above us.

I'm not so sure Shelvey is first choice. I suspect Longstaff has worked his way into Howes plans.

Hendrick, Clark, Hayden...

By that time he will be 6th choice IMO. It's not a big deal. We've shown we can find players an exit door via the loan route.

Was going to make a similar comment but didn't want to look bitchy. It's fine people feel frustrated at times but it has to be caveated with the knowledge that we are a professional outfit now and have people at the club who have thought about every issue.

Not bothered if it takes 2 weeks or 6 weeks, we will get players in. We have people who know what they are doing.

I'd argue that Toney is a clear upgrade on Wood.

As much as our fans would be foaming.... I'd rather sign noone than someone who isn't clearly a better option than what we already have.

For 35m we'd be better off dipping into the potential wonderkid market in Europe.

Yeah that's my initial thought. He's a good player, for sure but towards the end of the window, possibilities will open up, I'd rather keep our powder dry.