One player that is known to be on Steve Bruce’s radar is Joe Willock following his remarkable loan spell from Arsenal last season.
Confirmation is still to be had on contracts as well, most notable Federico Fernandez, Fabian Schar, Andy Carroll, Paul Dummett and Dwight Gayle.
Despite reports of Bruce’s restricted transfer budget, all the early speculation points towards a busy window.
While it remains to be seen if that will be the case, the bookmakers have weighed with their predictions on who they think Bruce could target over the coming months:
1. Harry Kane - 50/1
Well, this is a bit of a shock… unless Mike Ashley has found £150m wedged down the back of the sofa. Kane wants to leave Tottenham this summer and the two Manchester clubs City (7/4) and United (5/2) are among the favourites to secure his signature. Photo: Laurence Griffiths
2. James Tarkowski - 22/1
Despite United’s featuring on the list, even the bookmakers think a Tarkowski transfer to St James’s Park is a tad unlikely. Leicester City (4/1) and West Ham (10/1) have been linked with the defender for well over a year now. Photo: Pool
3. Aleksandar Mitrovic - 16/1
Three seasons as a Premier League striker... three relegations. Mitro remains a popular figure on Tyneside but a return is surely out of the question. Roma (2/1), West Ham (7/2) and Besiktas (8/1) are all ranked as more likely. Photo: Catherine Ivill
4. Ruben Loftus-Cheek - 12/1
The Chelsea midfielder didn’t enjoy the best of seasons on loan at relegated Fulham but interest is still high as he prepares to leave Stamford Bridge. Aston Villa are favourites at 2/1. Photo: JUSTIN SETTERFIELD