Les Ferdinand has told The Sun that Newcastle United fans need to be patient as the Toon must focus on avoiding relegation before big-name transfers after the Saudi-led takeover.
Mike Ashley sold the Magpies to Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund, Amanda Staveley and the Reuben brothers earlier this month. Reports have since linked the likes of Niklas Sule, Ousmane Dembele and recently Watford’s Ismaila Sarr with moves to Tyneside.
But Ferdinand, who spent two-years at St James’ Park, would urge Newcastle to wait until the summer before high-ticket transfers. Instead, the former England international feels the new ownership should focus on names that will move United clear of relegation.
“The priority is to get the team out of the relegation zone,” Ferdinand said. “They’ve got to wait until January, so it’s about planning and making money available to attract the players they’re going to need.
“It’s no quick fix. You’re going to have to bring in certain players to help you out of the predicament right now. Then next summer, they’ll have to go again to get the players to take them forward.
“The fans are going to need patience. People are speculating they’re going to do this, that and the other, but they’re in the relegation zone. They’ll be able to buy the players to get them out of the predicament they’re in, then it is onwards and upwards.”
Should Newcastle follow Ferdinand’s transfer advice?
Newcastle are without a win after nine Premier League games so far this season to sit 19th in the table. Only Norwich City (2) have fewer points (4) by virtue of claiming two draws to the Magpies’ four. With both, plus Burnley, the only sides still waiting for their first victory.
Additionally, only Norwich (23) have conceded more than the Toon (20), who have scored 11 goals so far this term. Leaving them three-points – and without a manager after sacking Steve Bruce and appointing Graeme Jones interim boss – away from safety.
The PIF, Staveley and Reuben brothers will not want Newcastle to drop out of the Premier League following their takeover. So, will likely follow Ferdinand’s suggestion of focusing on securing safety before targeting those to help reach the next level. With a particular focus surely set to be on another striker to support Callum Wilson under whoever takes charge.
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