First is Brentford's Ivan Toney, sold by the Magpies in 2018, second is Teemu Pukki of Norwich City and third is Geordie-born Adam Armstrong, now at Blackburn Rovers.
The progression of Toney and Armstrong certainly raises the question of ‘what if’ on Tyneside. Toney, last month, was even linked with a surprise return.
Now, Armstrong is also touted with moving back to St James’s Park, three years after he was offloaded to Ewood Park.
As per TEAMTalk, the Magpies are planning to push ahead with a deal to bring the former England under-21s to Tyneside – regardless of whether they are relegated or not.
Steve Bruce’s side have the advantage over clubs reportedly chasing his signature – West Ham and Southampton – after inserting a 40% sell-on when he sold to Rovers for £1.75million.
Apparently, that sell-on clause can be “written off as part of the deal” for Armstrong, who they said is valued at around £16million.
The 24-year-old has scored 19 times in 33 Championship appearances this season, averaging a goal every 150 minutes.
Here are the latest headlines surrounding Newcastle and their Premier League rivals:
. A general view of the stadium ahead of the English Premier League football match between Newcastle United and Leicester City at St James' Park in Newcastle-upon-Tyne, north east England on January 3, 2021. (Photo by Paul ELLIS / POOL / AFP) / RESTRICTED TO EDITORIAL USE. No use with unauthorized audio, video, data, fixture lists, club/league logos or 'live' services. Online in-match use limited to 120 images. An additional 40 images may be used in extra time. No video emulation. Social media in-match use limited to 120 images. An additional 40 images may be used in extra time. No use in betting publications, games or single club/league/player publications. / (Photo by PAUL ELLIS/POOL/AFP via Getty Images)
St James's Park, the home of Newcastle United Football Club. (Photo by PAUL ELLIS/POOL/AFP via Getty Images) Photo: PAUL ELLIS
1. Man City target Ings
Manchester City are interested in signing Southampton striker Danny Ings, who is entering the final year of his contract, as a potential successor to Sergio Aguero. Ings has scored eight league goals this season. (Sky Sports) Photo: Clive Brunskill
2. Daka catches quartet's attention
Red Bull Salzburg forward Patson Daka, who has scored 20 goals in 18 games this season, is attracting the attention of Manchester United, Manchester City, Liverpool and Arsenal. (Daily Mail) Photo: Adam Pretty
3. Burnley monitor Wilks
Burnley are keeping a close eye on former Leeds United youngster Mallik Wilks with a view to launching a summer move. The 22-year-old has scored 17 goals for Hull City in League One this term. (Football League World) Photo: Alex Davidson
4. Robinson considered by Sheff Utd
Sheffield United have shortlisted Oxford United manager Karl Robinson as a potential successor to Chris Wilder, however former Fulham and Watford boss Slavisa Jokanovic remains their number one target. (The Sun) Photo: Alex Burstow