Sean

Wages? Signing on fee? Pretty clear we could hardly afford anyone in the summer. Also, Ashley would have authorised the Murphy transfer as he's young and english with resale value. Not as if Rafa actually decided which of his targets we got.

Yep. I don't really care about starting elevens anymore. Sure, I have opinions but at the end of the day, I trust Rafa. Same.

I'm just back to the default position of everything's bad forever...makes it easier

He's made a few pointed references to our fans losing their shit on social media - abusing players, this "442 will solve everything" mentality also. The man should be listened to.

We need to hope there's been another bid put in already really. The press didn't know anything about the last one for days and days until it was leaked, but by who? By now there surely will have either been a revised bid or PCP will have walked away. Is Ashley just ignoring the bids and not even dignifying them with a response? Is that why news of the bid was leaked with no proper answer as to whether it had been accepted or rejected? Seems like the type of thing he'd do tbh, hopefully not.

It was this time last week we heard about the first bid, hoping something else comes out later today.

I don't think I can cope much longer without some positive news on this.

This. Wouldn't be supposed if he's actually 40

I'm really hoping this has already been agreed. The press didn't know anything about the offer at the end of last week all the way until Monday evening. If this falls through we are so fucked it's unreal. The comedown would be crushing.

Yep, we really do have some fucking appalling fans. Like it's a contest to see who can write a player off the quickest.

Should have had at least one and probably 2 assists today if Joselu could kick a football.

Never mind the first 2 goals, absolutely pathetic for the third...doesn't even bother his arse tracking Richarlison. Completely gave up ffs.

Watch the 3rd goal...what the fuck is Yedlin doing just walking back?!

Our best move of the game ffs

Defence has gone to shit with Lejeune playing.

This is gonna get toxic I fear.

Same tbh.

Referees against us are a fucking joke man.

If only we had a keeper that had some athleticism or reactions.

Or a terrible lazy attempt at a pass. This was my first thought too.

Diame :'(

Thanks. That would seem more realistic as to how much we could spend.

So how do other clubs like Man City get away with spending more? Pretty sure sponsorship deals and income (tickets, TV money, merchandise etc), which will take time to grow no matter what. Apart from the sponsorship of course, as we're currently giving it away for free!

Just found this from the Guardian: "It is understood FFP regulations would permit Benítez to invest around £30m in January, although increased income would dictate that Newcastle could be free to spend considerably more next summer. The fear among fans is that, should Staveley’s bid collapse and Ashley remain in control, such a scenario may become academic." So around £30 million max even if there was more money available it seems.