It has been a quiet week for Newcastle United, but there was a bit more for the fans to cheer about after an encouraging season opener against a solid Southampton side.
The Magpies will be looking to take all three points at the Liberty Stadium on Saturday, but there has been no new signings made to take to South Wales.
Still in search for a defender
Newcastle have been linked with Werder Bremen defender Jannik Vestergaard in the past week, but the reported £7million price tag might put Steve McClaren off. They would also have to face competition from Everton as they are also thought to be looking at the 23-year-old Dane.
Leeds United's versatile defender Sam Byram, has been another player mentioned to strengthen the squad. However, the Yorkshire club seem intent on keeping their longest serving player, after re-opening contract talks with the talented 21-year-old right back, in an attempt to fend off Everton, West Ham and Aston Villa, who are all also interested.
More players expected to leave
While there has been no new signings this past week, it has emerged that several fringe players along with Yoan Gouffran have been told they can leave the club, before the transfer window closes. Gouffran, Haris Vuckic, Gael Bigirimana, Kevin Mbabu and Mehdi Abeid have all been told they are surplus to requirements at St James’ Park.
Gouffran, who signed from Bordeaux two and a half years ago, has struggled recently, but was a regular starter under Alan Pardew. Slovenian, Vuckic, Burundian Bigirimana and Swiss Mbabu, all spent most of last season on loan at Rangers, in the Scottish Championship, but failed to make an impact north of the border.
Abeid made his Newcastle Premier League debut in the 1-0 win over Liverpool in November 2014, but also failed to make a big impression.
Fans are hoping this squad clear-out will mean there will be new faces at the club in the coming weeks.