Steve Bruce set for Newcastle United transfer summit as manager's Saudi takeover 'frustration' grows

The Magpies continue to make necessary plans with the 2020/21 season just a matter of weeks away, despite the landscape remaining uncertain due to the PIF, PCP and Reuben Brothers consortium’s £300 million bid to buy the club.

That bid has shown little signs of progress of late, and Bruce admits he’s as frustrated as anyone.

"In every interview for 15 weeks I'm asked the same thing,” said Bruce.

"I have said many times we need a bit of clarity on it. We want to see what the decision is.

"Up until that time, til we know what the decision is, I just go to work, will see the CEO (Lee Charnley) at the end of the week, to see what we can do and what we can’t, and plan for the summer. That’s all we can do.

"It is frustrating for everyone concerned, let’s hope there is a decision very, very shortly.”

United this morning announced a long-term extension to current sponsors FUN88’s agreement.

It is likely the club’s relationship with Puma will also continue into next season and United will look to complete a number of permanent signings this summer, despite the Magpies’ budget set to be depressed.

Speaking before the Brighton game, Bruce said: “I would envisage our budget is not going to be as big as what it was going to be in January before all this started.”