Mike Ashley Wants Newcastle United Transfer Shortlist For Summer

A new central defender A central midfielder A new goalkeeper A young striker A central defender is obvious given that Newcastle only have three recognised center backs at the club and with Steven Taylor out for the reason, Alan Pardew has complained several times that it is simply not enough cover and was bitterly disappointed not to have added to his squad in that position during the January window. Despite having a lot of options in central midfield, clearly after Tiote & Cabaye there are question marks over James Perch, Dan Gosling (who hasn't felt like he has got going after his many injuries and a suspension) and with Danny Guthrie's contract running out at the end of the summer and not yet being tied up. With Steve Harper likely to leave in the summer (as he has pretty much dropped down to third choice) and Fraser Forster also probably to pack his packs and big question marks over Rob Elliott who hasn't impressed in the reserves or the Carling Cup fixture he had against Nottingham Forest last year, a new goalkeeper was also likely. And up front all of Newcastle's strikers (except Nile Ranger who will be sold at first opportunity and Sammy Ameobi who is utlisied more on the wing) are closer to 30 than they are 20 and some young blood was desperately required in that position. Meanwhile over January there were reports Newcastle were speaking to various agents in France and are very keen on poaching players from that league as they tend to come a bit cheaper than other countries but are loaded with gems.