Yahoo News Newcastle United 'uncertainty' on transfers with £28m announcement imminent
Eddie Howe has revealed that there is a veil of "uncertainty" over Newcastle United's summer transfer business as the football world gears up for the opening of the transfer window.
But he did not play down moves for Tosin Adarabioyo and Lloyd Kelly when asked about incoming free transfer possibilities. The early arrival of a centre-back appears to be the priority for Howe with Sven Botman and Jamaal Lascelles both injured for the first half of the season.
The Magpies know they must cut their cloth accordingly going into the summer because of PSR and FFP rules. Just a few weeks ago, Howe stated that there would not be a mass overhaul in terms of recruitment but Howe said that the conditions of the market aren't clear.
Newcastle are looking to appoint a new sporting director but are believed to be on track with whittling down their shortlist and making decisions on a retained list.
Howe said: "We've been finalising the plan. There's a lot of uncertainty over transfers in general, with prices and how much activity there will be. For us, there's a lot that could happen but it's one of those things we'll have to see how it unfolds."
Part of the plan for the bigger picture is the permanent signing of Lewis Hall with the full-back making arrangements to move to the area. A £28m deal is in place for Hall but and Howe said an "update" is imminent.
Speaking about the player's first season on a loan basis, Howe said: "I think for any player when you come to a new club, it's natural there's going to be a settling-in period.
"He's done really well to commit and continue to commit and have consistency in his work, even when no doubt he was frustrated that things weren't happening quicker than he'd wanted. He did really well at Old Trafford and showed a lot of maturity. I'm delighted with where his game is at."
Newcastle are set to say goodbye to Loris Karius while announcements are waited on Paul Dummett and Matt Ritchie to see if they will be handed an extension for next season.
