🇸🇦Since Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment take over he has invested over £200 Billion 💵 in Newcastle since he arrives, Ranking the Revolution:
🇸🇦Since Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment take over he has invested over £200 Billion 💵 in Newcastle since he arrives, Ranking the Revolution:
🇸🇦 Ranking the Revolution: Newcastle United’s Top PIF Signings
Since the seismic takeover by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) in October 2021, Newcastle United have embarked on an ambitious journey. Gone are the days of penny-pinching and relegation battles; the Magpies are now a force to be reckoned with, thanks in no small part to some shrewd acquisitions in the transfer market.
While the financial muscle of PIF has been significant, the success of Newcastle’s recruitment has been more about smart spending and identifying players who fit Eddie Howe’s demanding system.
Here, I attempt to rank the most impactful first team signings (apart from Eddie and co) of the PIF era, not as easy as it sounds. I try to consider their influence on the pitch, value for money, and overall contribution to the club’s resurgence.
The Game Changers:
1. Bruno Guimarães (January 2022, Lyon, £35m)
Undisputably the crown jewel of the PIF era. Bruno’s arrival instantly transformed Newcastle’s midfield, bringing a blend of silk and steel. His vision, passing range, defensive tenacity, and ability to dictate play have made him indispensable. He’s the heartbeat of the team, a true box-to-box midfielder who elevates everyone around him. If there’s one signing that epitomises the new Newcastle United, it’s Bruno.
2. Alexander Isak (August 2022, Real Sociedad, £63m)
While a significant outlay, Isak has proven to be a sensational investment. His blistering pace, clinical finishing, and intelligent movement make him a constant threat. Despite battling one or two injuries, he has consistently delivered goals, showcasing his elite talent and potential to become one of the Premier League’s most feared strikers.
3. Kieran Trippier (January 2022, Atlético Madrid, £12m)
Probably a shock to some I’ve ranked him so highly and a relatively modest fee for a player of his importance, calibre and experience. Trippier’s arrival sent a clear message: Newcastle meant business. His leadership, defensive solidity, exceptional set-piece delivery, and attacking prowess from right-back have been instrumental. He set the tone for the new era and quickly became a fan favourite and a vital part of the dressing room. He’s been missed these last few games.
4. Sandro Tonali (July 2023, AC Milan, £55m)
A hugely exciting signing that was initially, unfortunately, derailed by a lengthy betting ban but has since been a revelation. Tonali shows quality, intensity and intelligence in midfield. His partnership with our Brazalian boys is perfect and they are arguably the best in the entire Premier League. He can also run and run and RUN forever and a day – what an athlete!
5. Sven Botman (July 2022, Lille, £35m)
Park the injury. Cool, composed, and dominant in the air, Botman has been the rock at the heart of Newcastle’s defence. His partnership with Fabian Schär has been a cornerstone of our defensive improvement, leading to a much-vaunted solidity. He reads the game brilliantly and rarely puts a foot wrong, proving to be a perfect fit for Howe’s tactical setup. He has been unlucky with a nasty injury but there is no doubting his class or pedigree.
6. Dan Burn (January 2022, Brighton, £13m)
The Geordie giant has been a revelation. Initially seen as a squad player, Burn’s versatility, defensive prowess, and surprising comfort have made him a consistent starter. His passion for the club and unwavering commitment resonate with the fanbase, making him a true unsung hero.
Strong Contributors:
7. Anthony Gordon (January 2023, Everton, £40m)
After a challenging start, Gordon has blossomed into a vital attacking asset. His directness, relentless work rate, and ability to beat a man have made him a nightmare for opposition defenders. He’s added much-needed pace and unpredictability to the Magpies’ forward line, often chipping in with important goals and assists. A blip recently doesn’t take away from a class player.
8. Nick Pope (July 2022, Burnley, £10m)
An absolute bargain. Pope brought stability and a commanding presence between the sticks. His shot-stopping ability, (the cup final perfectly highlighted this) and aerial dominance significantly upgraded Newcastle’s goalkeeping department. He’s been crucial to our defensive solidity and initial Champions League qualification.
Promising Long-term Future:
9. Lewis Hall (August 2023, Chelsea, Loan with obligation to buy, £28m)
Lewis Hall described his initial time at Newcastle as difficult, with limited game time leading him to feel “in a dark place”. Despite his move to his boyhood club, he started just 11 games across all competitions, struggling to settle. However, he later emphasized his commitment to training and self-improvement, even when not in the starting lineup. According to the Telegraph, Hall analyzed his own game and watched other players in his position, demonstrating a dedication to his craft that didn’t go unnoticed on the training ground. Hall has since shown this season his amazing ability on the ball and attacking intent from left-back. He provides excellent balance in the team and is consistent and reliable. The sky is the limit.
10. Tino Livramento (August 2023, Southampton, £30m)
Despite arriving with an injury, Livramento has shown big flashes of his immense potential. His athleticism, attacking instincts, and defensive capabilities suggest he will be a long-term asset at full-back, where he can play either side. He’s really challenging and pushing Trippier all the way and promises a bright and long future for the club.
11. Harvey Barnes (July 2023, Leicester City, £38m)
With some of the goals he’s scored it feels hard to place him lower on the list like this! Barnes has provided a valuable attacking option with his direct running and eye for goal. While not always a guaranteed starter, he offers genuine competition and an alternative threat from wide areas. Injuries have hampered his consistent impact, but his quality is undeniable.
The “What If?”/Departed:
Chris Wood (January 2022, Burnley, £25m)
Signed as an emergency striker to provide cover and a physical presence, Wood helped Newcastle survive relegation. While his goal tally wasn’t prolific, his hold-up play and work rate were important. He was ultimately moved on for a profit, making it a successful short-term acquisition and he’s doing brilliantly at Forest.
The PIF era at Newcastle United has been a period of rapid and calculated growth. While not every signing has been an unqualified success (as is always the case in football), the overall picture is one of intelligent investment that has propelled the club back into contention for consistent European football. The focus on high-character individuals who fit Eddie Howe’s philosophy has been key, laying a strong foundation for what promises to be an exciting future on Tyneside.
