Reader TTS

There is one inescapable fact about Newcastle United's squad right now, and it's no secret - it's just not big enough. Managers, head coaches and sporting directors have

talked for some time of the need to have two players for every position if you want to challenge for silverware and Champions League places. Newcastle have made huge strides in what is still

a relatively short space of time since the new owners took up residence at St James' Park late in 2021. And they are set to increase the investment in the first-team squad even further

in what promises to be an exciting summer of transfer activity on Tyneside. To say that it's much needed is no criticism of the club's hierarchy, but an acknowledgement that if

you stand still in football you will be quickly overtaken. Eddie Howe and his squad have performed superbly well to be within touching distance of a Champions League spot with one game to

play, and their destiny very much in their own hands. But amid the celebrations which will hopefully follow a positive result against Everton at St James' Park on Sunday, those in the

corridors of power will know more hard work is needed to build on the achievements of this season. And that means significant transfer activity. It won't all be about incoming deals.

Newcastle are very aware that any exits they can negotiate - that don't weaken the first team - will only help their standing when it comes to financial fair play and the profit and

sustainability rules. The issue is, in most cases, those who leave will need to be replaced. In midfield, United have what they are striving for elsewhere, in that they have three

first-choice midfielders in Sandro Tonali, Joelinton and Bruno Guimaraes, and three to step up, in Lewis Miley, Sean Longstaff and Joe Willock. However, there are big decisions to be made on

the latter pair, with Premier League interest in Longstaff and Willock. Any transfer fee received would be welcome - but with other transfer priorities, can United replace them before

deadline day. Longstaff in particular is a key deal, as any fee would count as 100 per cent profit on the homegrown talent. This is where their scouting network comes in, with one target

standing out in particular. Angel Gomes has been on Newcastle's radar for some time, and will have been watched carefully, with the club sending scouts to monitor Lille team-mate

Johnathan David. The former Manchester United midfielder has announced he will be leaving the French side this summer, and what's more, he is available on a free with his contract

expiring. He posted on social media: "After four unforgettable years at LOSC Lille, it's time for me to say goodbye. This club has been more than just a team - it's been a

family, a home, and a place that has shaped me both on and off the pitch. Like any journey, there were ups and downs, highs and lows, but I'm truly grateful to my team-mates and the

fans for sticking with me throughout." Now 24, Gomes has impressed in France and earned an England call-up under Lee Carsley last year. Of course there will be agent fees and a no-doubt

hefty wage demand to meet, but it seems to be the perfect deal for Newcastle. It allows them to sell a midfielder to maximise profit while spending relatively little to secure a

replacement. They will have to act quickly. Tottenham are said to be keen on the midfielder, with West Ham also ready to make a move. He has Champions League experience with Lille, playing

four times in this season's competition, scoring against Feyenoord. However, a return to England looks likely, and for money, Newcastle should be at the head of the queue.