EXCLUSIVE Newcastle Confidential Q&A Special: After Anthony Elanga, which two unexpected Premier League talents could NUFC target? Will Alexander Isak sign a new contract and take the No. 9 jersey? And, will James Trafford sign this week?

EXCLUSIVE: Newcastle Confidential Q&A – Elanga Deal Sparks More Surprises, Isak’s Future, and Trafford Talks

The rumour mill around St. James’ Park has been spinning faster than ever as Newcastle United dive deep into a pivotal transfer window. With Anthony Elanga already in the spotlight as a possible arrival, insiders now hint at two surprise Premier League stars being eyed by Eddie Howe’s recruitment team. These names, while not yet public, are understood to be from clubs not typically associated with offloading key assets – a signal that Newcastle’s ambition is growing louder and bolder.

Elanga, the jet-heeled winger from Nottingham Forest, has impressed behind the scenes, not just with his attacking flair but also his work ethic and adaptability. Though talks are still ongoing, optimism is reportedly high that he could be Newcastle’s first major attacking reinforcement of the summer. But even more intriguing are the whispers surrounding two unexpected targets from the Premier League. Both are seen as high-calibre players, and their potential arrival would raise eyebrows and expectations across Tyneside.

One of the names being floated is a creative midfielder who starred last season but has quietly grown unsettled due to managerial changes at his current club. The second, a versatile full-back, would offer competition and depth in a department that Howe considers vital. Both players are said to be open to a move, impressed by Newcastle’s project and the chance to feature in European football again.

Meanwhile, fans have been asking about the future of Alexander Isak. The Swedish forward had an outstanding campaign, and his chemistry with the team continues to improve. There have been growing suggestions that Isak may be rewarded with an improved deal and a symbolic change – taking over the iconic number nine shirt. Traditionally worn by legends at the club, the number nine carries weight in the northeast, and for Isak to wear it would be a clear sign of faith from the club’s hierarchy.

Talks are ongoing, but the player is believed to be relaxed about his future. He is settled in the city, enjoys Howe’s style of play, and is close to several teammates. While other clubs circle, Newcastle remain confident he will commit his peak years to the black-and-white stripes. Any potential deal would be seen as a major statement of intent – not just retaining stars but building a team around them.

Another name consistently linked with a move to St. James’ Park is goalkeeper James Trafford. The young shot-stopper has been identified as a key long-term piece in the club’s succession planning. With the current first-choice keeper entering the latter stages of his career, Trafford is viewed as both a challenger and a future starter. Talks with Burnley have progressed, and it is understood that a breakthrough is close.

Trafford himself is said to be eager to join the project, and there is mutual enthusiasm between player and manager. Eddie Howe has taken a personal interest in the move, having watched the England youth international extensively. While some contractual issues remain, club sources are increasingly hopeful that the deal could be finalised within days.

Newcastle’s transfer strategy this summer is carefully calibrated. Rather than sweeping changes, the club is focused on fine-tuning and targeting specific weaknesses. The focus has shifted from quantity to quality. Each signing is being assessed not just for talent, but for mentality, versatility, and how they fit the club’s long-term philosophy.

With financial regulations still influencing spending, Newcastle have chosen to be meticulous rather than rash. Several potential deals have already been paused or reshaped to ensure the club remains within compliance while strengthening the squad in key areas. The Elanga interest fits this model perfectly – a young player with Premier League experience, room to grow, and strong resale value.

The upcoming weeks could define not only this season but Newcastle’s trajectory over the next few years. The club’s leadership knows this, and that’s why negotiations are being handled with exceptional care. There’s no panic, no impulsiveness – just a methodical approach led by a clear vision.

The return to European football means Newcastle need more than just a solid starting eleven. Depth is essential, and Howe is keen to ensure that his squad can handle the demands of multiple competitions. That’s why versatile players, like one of the unnamed targets, are being prioritised – individuals who can play multiple roles depending on tactics and injuries.

Behind the scenes, there is a quiet buzz. Staff are excited, training intensity is high, and the unity within the camp remains strong. The departure of a few fringe players has also opened up squad space and budget room for fresh additions, and there’s a real sense that the club is entering the next phase of its evolution.

At board level, there is full alignment with Howe’s vision. Patience and trust have become trademarks of the new Newcastle era, and even when results have dipped, there’s been no knee-jerk reaction. That same patience is guiding this summer’s transfer dealings.

Another area the club is quietly exploring is midfield reinforcements. With injuries last season exposing depth issues, expect at least one central player to arrive before the window closes. Though not yet at the advanced stage, talks are underway with a few candidates from abroad, particularly in France and Germany.

Youth development also remains a priority. The club has stepped up scouting in South America and Scandinavia, hoping to repeat the success stories of players like Isak. While these deals may not make headlines today, they’re part of a broader foundation being laid for sustainable success.

The coaching staff are also examining tactical tweaks for the upcoming campaign. Depending on new arrivals, a more flexible formation may be introduced, allowing Newcastle to switch between a back four and three central defenders. This would require further additions in the wide defensive roles, which may explain the interest in the aforementioned Premier League full-back.

While supporters naturally focus on marquee signings, the club is also reviewing sports science, nutrition, and injury prevention – areas that proved crucial last season. Marginal gains could separate Newcastle from its rivals, especially when the fixture list tightens.

Finally, a word on the atmosphere within the club. Insiders describe it as the best it’s been in years. From the dressing room to the boardroom, the energy is positive, ambitious, and united. And if the next few weeks deliver the expected signings, Newcastle fans may have even more to cheer about when the curtain rises on the new season.

Sky Sports: Leeds United eye double Newcastle United transfer swoop as personal conditions are agreed

Leeds United are pursuing a double transfer swoop from Newcastle.

Leeds have agreed personal terms with Sean Longstaff and filed a £10 million plus £2 million add-ons offer.

Newcastle extended Longstaff’s contract to the end of the 2025/26 season to avoid losing him on a free transfer in the summer.

And the club appears prepared to cash in on the academy graduate in a move that will be recorded as pure profit in Newcastle’s PSR calculations.

Longstaff’s 19-year association with Newcastle might come to an end when he joins a newly promoted Leeds side. Longstaff made 214 appearances for the Magpies after coming up through the youth, scoring 16 goals.

Longstaff’s highlight at Newcastle was likely his goal in the 4-1 Champions League victory over Paris Saint-Germain in October 2023.

Leeds are seeking to do further business with Newcastle this summer, in addition to signing Longstaff.

Sky Sports make a Leeds United transfer claim.

Leeds are also interested in Newcastle goalkeeper Nick Pope. Pope’s long-term future at St James’ Park is questionable as he enters the final year of his contract. The Magpies are also looking to sign James Trafford from Burnley.

Newcastle ideally wants to keep Pope and have him fight with Trafford for the starting goalkeeper role.

However, Leeds are looking for a new goalkeeper this summer to replace Illan Meslier.

According to Sky Sports’ Keith Downie, Nick Pope wishes to remain at Newcastle despite interest from Leeds United.

“With #NUFC in talks with Burnley over James Trafford, there are questions about Pope’s future at the club.” But Newcastle want him to stay, and so does Pope, 33, with Champions League action on the horizon.

The expectation is that Pope will stay, but everything might alter if Trafford arrives in Newcastle. The possible goalkeeper deal would almost probably allow Martin Dubravka to leave the club this summer.

Newcastle now has five senior goalkeepers under contract, with Dubravka, John Ruddy, and Mark Gillespie all signing new agreements this year. The other two are Pope and Odysseas Vlachodimos, with the latter potentially available for loan.

So, even if Pope stays in Newcastle, Leeds will have plenty of options if they decide to continue shopping on Tyneside.

James Trafford’s newest transfer comes following NUFC’s proposal.

The possible arrival of Trafford will most likely decide any goalkeeper movement at Newcastle this summer.

Newcastle made a £27 million approach for the goalkeeper last month, which Burnley rejected, but have stayed in talks since.

Trafford has made minimal progress in the last week or two, and he is currently back training with Burnley in preparation for the season. However, the Magpies have been working on the transfer for over a year and are still hoping to complete it before the first game of pre-season on July 19 at Celtic (3pm kickoff).