James Trafford truth as Newcastle United edge closer to second summer signing - Q&A
Newcastle United Q&A: From transfer to commercial, our writer Jordan Cronin answers the burning questions.
It’s been a busy week for Newcastle United on the transfer and commercial front.
The Magpies announced French goalkeeper Ewen Jaouen as their first summer signing from Stade de Reims while on the same day releasing their divisive 2026/27 Adidas home shirt without a front of shirt sponsor.
Newcastle are also pushing to sign Spanish winger Victor Munoz from Osasuna, while their interest in Manchester City’s James Trafford remains.
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Here, our Newcastle United writer Jordan Cronin gives his take on the latest key talking points:
What have you made of NUFC's transfer business so far?
At this early stage, we can’t really ask for much more, can we? Newcastle have been decisive, proactive on the front foot so far, three things they absolutely didn’t have last summer.
Of course, Newcastle didn’t have a sporting director or active CEO in place, which proved fatal. But having those people in place is one thing; doing is another, and Ross Wilson and David Hopkinson are delivering so far.
Anthony Gordon wanted to go and they sorted that out early, a complete contrast to the Alexander Isak fiasco. And with new signings, they clearly aren’t wanting to wait around.
It was July 11 when Newcastle announced their first signing, Anthony Elanga, last summer. At this rate, they’ll have at least two before the same date this year.
What is the latest on Victor Munoz?
I think this one happens. We heard whispers of a deal on Wednesday night and, lo and behold, it broke elsewhere. It’s been positive noises ever since.
Just on the player himself, I’m not going to pretend I know much about him other than the highlight reels you’ve probably seen too, but it is a signing that excites me.
I quite like the unknown factor about him and Ewen Jaouen, and that’s clearly a route the recruitment team will go down with other signings too.
What is next for Newcastle in the transfer market?
If we’re talking priority positions, then right-back is a must after losing Kieran Trippier and Emil Krafth, but I wouldn’t be surprised to see Newcastle target positions they already have strong numbers in.
I do think further sales are inevitable, whether that’s a fringe player like Joe Willock or a superstar like Sandro Tonali.
Goalkeeper is one to watch too. Newcastle’s interest in Manchester City’s James Trafford has never gone away and if a deal can be struck (third time lucky) then that would almost certainly spell an end to Nick Pope’s time at the club.
What are your thoughts on the new home kit?
I want to like it and maybe it will grow on me eventually, but my initial feeling still stands - it’s minging. It’s the blue trim for me. Without it, I think it’d be passable.
Yes, I get it, there’s only so much you can do with black and white stripes but if you’re going to try a ‘new take’, at least do better than a barcode...
Why doesn't it have a sponsor?
It’s not a great look, is it? But as long as there is one in place before the opening day of the Premier League season, which we’re told there will be, then I’m OK about it.
The current market for front-of-shirt sponsors is said to be more challenging than it was previously due to the current global and commercial landscape. It probably doesn’t help that Newcastle missed out on Europe too.
By being patient and not panicking, Newcastle hopefully won’t have undersold themselves, which is what some Premier League clubs have done.
Who are you backing to win the World Cup?
England, of course... No, but in all seriousness, I think it’ll be either France or Spain.