In the meantime, record numbers of football fans have been taking to Football Manager to get their fix. For a bit of fun, we've fired up the popular management sim and sent the game into the future, to have a peek at who the Magpies are predicted to sign over the next three transfer windows.
13. Ryad Boudebouz - St Etienne - £4.8 million
Summer is here, and the Magpies are ready to rebuild after a mid-table finish to the 2020/21 campaign. Mark Hughes has replaced Bruce as manager, and signs Boudebouz permanently. (Photo by PATRICK HERTZOG/AFP via Getty Images) | Getty Images Photo: PATRICK HERTZOG
14. Kevin Ruegg - Zurich - £7.25 million
A rather left field signing here, but an enjoyable one nonetheless. He's a gritty, hard-working defensive midfielder, who is a decent - if rather pricey - squad bulker. (Photo by Maja Hitij/Getty Images) | Getty Images Photo: Maja Hitij
15. Adam Webster - Brighton - £4.7 million
Crikey, we'll need to build a tunnel to Brighton at this rate. Webster is the latest player to be poached from the Seagulls, and should help shore up the Magpies' defence.. (Photo by Richard Heathcote/Getty Images) | Getty Images Photo: Richard Heathcote
16. Gerard Deulofeu - Watford - £31.5 million
Ooft, now you're talking! Hughes makes his most expensive signing since Robinho at Man City over a decade ago, capturing the ex-Barcelona gem in a stunning move. (Photo by Richard Heathcote/Getty Images) | Getty Images Photo: Richard Heathcote