Newcastle United have agreed a deal worth up to £34 million with Monaco for 20-year-old midfielder Aladji Bamba, who will become the club’s fourth senior signing of the summer. His arrival, expected to be confirmed imminently, solves one of Eddie Howe’s biggest priorities in the window as the Magpies prepare for their Premier League opener against Liverpool in just over four weeks’ time. League standing (final 2025 table -- new season not yet under way): 12th in Premier League, 49 pts, 14W-7D-17L from 38 games, recent form LWDWL.
What does Aladji Bamba bring to Newcastle United?
Bamba will slot into the number six role Newcastle have chased all summer, offering energy, progressive passing and defensive cover. The French youngster joins Sean Steur, Ewen Jaouen and Bazoumana Toure as the club’s latest under-20 arrivals. At 20, he fits Newcastle’s long-term project under Howe, who has prioritised youth alongside Premier League-ready experience. Goals this season: 53 scored, 55 conceded (-2 goal difference).
Why do Newcastle United still need two more signings?
Even with Bamba set to join, two gaps remain before the Liverpool opener on 17 August. Right-back depth is the bigger worry: Tino Livramento and Lewis Hall are the only senior options, while teenager Leo Shahar is expected to feature in pre-season. A right-back who can play left-back is the likely target, though a specialist on either flank would be ideal. Goalkeeper is the other priority. Nick Pope’s error-prone final season dented confidence, and while James Trafford and Noah Atubolu are no longer realistic, Parma’s Zion Suzuki remains a top target. Title race: 36 points behind leaders Arsenal.
Who could Newcastle United sign next?
Suzuki tops the list after Newcastle cooled interest in Trafford and lost Atubolu to Leeds. The Magpies have scouted the 21-year-old extensively, valuing his reflexes and command of the box. Other names linked include left-back options to bolster cover across both flanks. With the window open until 1 September, sporting director Ross Wilson has time to add quality without rushing.
What happens if Newcastle United fail to sign these targets?
Missing out on a right-back or goalkeeper would force Howe to rely on academy products or loan deals. Shahar could step up, but the squad lacks senior depth after Pope’s struggles last term. A quiet final week of the window would leave Newcastle exposed defensively, especially if injuries strike before the Anfield trip.
