Head coach Steve Bruce pushed ahead with preparations for next season this week after pre-season friendlies at York City and Harrogate Town were announced.
And the 60-year-old is facing a big summer off the field as he looks to bolster his squad and stay well clear of relegation.
Bruce has made it clear he’d like to sign Joe Willock on a permanent basis from Arsenal but the midfielder isn’t the only player reportedly on the former Manchester United defender’s wishlist.
Plenty of transfer speculation is circulating around the web – and this is how Newcastle’s starting XI COULD line-up next season if the rumours turn out to be true:
1. GK: Martin Dubravka
The Slovakian is Newcastle’s number one - and that doesn’t look to be changing anytime soon despite Karl Darlow’s impressive campaign. Photo: Michael Regan
2. RWB: Javier Manquillo
Jacob Murphy has been linked with a move to the likes of Southampton, Watford and Rangers, so Manquillo comes in to replace him. Photo: Stu Forster
3. CB: Kristoffer Ajer
The Norwegian is believed to be on United’s radar as the Magpies reportedly weigh up an £8million bid to prize defender away from Celtic. Photo: Ian MacNicol
4. CB: Jamaal Lascelles
Newcastle’s captain Lascelles will miss the remainder of the season with a stress fracture but should be fit and raring to go in 2021/22. Photo: Stu Forster