- Newcastle have backed Eddie Howe with top signings
- The club’s transfer record has been broken during his reign
- All five were key in Carabao Cup triumph
Eddie Howe’s appointment in 2021 proved to be a turning point for Newcastle United, transforming the club both on and off the pitch. Since his arrival, the Mapgies have evolved from fighting relegation to a side ready to compete against the best.
Along with him, smart recruitment has also played a crucial role in that rise. Over £900m has been spent since the English coach replaced Steve Bruce at St James’ Park.
With that said, Read Newcastle have assessed and ranked the five best signings of the Eddie Howe era.
5. Sandro Tonali
Sandro Tonali’s Newcastle journey has been far from straightforward. Arriving from AC Milan with a huge reputation, the Italian midfielder was expected to elevate the Magpies’ midfield instantly.
However, off-field issues derailed his debut season, limiting his impact. He missed 10 months for breaking betting rules, much to the frustration of both the player and the club.
That said, Tonali’s quality is clear. His composure on the ball, his positional intelligence and the ability to control the tempo offer something different to Newcastle’s midfield. Although currently thriving, there is still a sense that his best is yet to come.
If he does go on to fulfil these rankings, ‘Toonali’ could rise significantly in this list. But keeping hold of him could be difficult given reported interest from the likes of Manchester United.
4. Dan Burn
Dan Burn may not have arrived with the same fanfare as others, but his importance to Newcastle cannot be overstated. The ‘Boy from Blyth’ has been a model of consistency since his arrival at his boyhood club. He’s brought leadership, versatility and defensive solidity at a crucial time.
Capable of playing both centre back and left back, he has been a consistent and dependable presence under Howe. Beyond his performances, his connection with the club and supporters adds intangible value.
His towering header in the 2-1 win against Liverpool at Wembley in the Carabao Cup final in 2025 will be remembered and sung by the Magpie faithful for years to come. While he may not be the most technically gifted player on the list, his reliability and commitment make him a key part of Newcastle’s rise.
3. Kieran Trippier
Kieran Trippier was the first of many major signings of the Howe era and arguably the most crucial in setting a precedent of what was to come. His influence at the club was immediate.
Arriving at Tyneside from Atletico Madrid while the Magpies were in a relegation scrap, the England international brought experience, leadership and professionalism.
From his organisation at the back to his delivery from set pieces, Trippier helped raise the squad’s mentality and standards. A leader in the dressing room both on and off the pitch, he’s an important figure at the club and a symbol of Newcastle’s transformation.
2. Alexander Isak
Despite the sour end to his time at St. James’ Park, Alexander Isak’s contribution and impact cannot be overlooked. Joining the club from Real Sociedad, he developed into a genuine elite-level striker over his three years with the Magpies.
Scoring 54 goals in 86 appearances, including the winner in the Carabao Cup final against Liverpool, his strike helped Eddie Howe end Newcastle’s 70-year trophy drought. His combination of pace, movement and predatory finishing made him one of the most dangerous forwards in the league.
Isak was a match-winner. His ability to create chances for himself and others added a different dimension to Newcastle’s attack, which made him a cornerstone of Howe’s system.
1. Bruno Guimaraes
The Brazilian midfielder is, without a doubt, the standout signing of the Eddie Howe era. Bruno Guimaraes has been the heartbeat of Newcastle’s side since his arrival.
His goal and assists from the centre of the park, while consistently ranking among the team’s top performers for passes, tackles, and chances created, make him a key figure at the club.
He’s one of the first names on the team sheet. He dictates play, drives the team forward and delivers in the big games. As captain, Bruno Guimaraes led the Magpies to Carabao Cup glory, cementing his name forever in Newcastle United’s folklore.
Along with his talent, the way he represents the badge makes him Howe’s most important signing of his era.
