It has now been a few days since the summer transfer window closed for English clubs. But that is not the case for every league around Europe. And Newcastle United are taking advantage of that fact.
Newcastle United had a summer transfer window to remember, for both good and bad reasons. On the one hand, they have signed some quality players.
Nico Gonzalez looked excellent against Tottenham Hotspur. Amar Dedic has been one of the highlights of the season so far and Tino Livramento might struggle to get back into the starting XI. And there are high hopes surrounding Matias Fernandez-Pardo.
On the other hand, there are a number of players who have left at the same time. Bruno Guimaraes, Anthony Gordon and Sandro Tonali are on that list. And now, even after the English window has closed, a name has been added to it.
Newcastle United announce another transfer
The Portuguese transfer window is still open. And that has helped Newcastle United find a new home for one of their most highly rated youngsters.
Newcastle United have officially announced that Leo Shahar has completed a season-long loan move to Portuguese top-flight club FC Arouca.
Shahar, who has come through the club’s youth ranks, having joined from Wolves, is one of the brightest young talents in English football right now. He has represented England consistently from the U15 to U19 levels.
At the senior level, he has represented Newcastle United on one occasion as well. But then again, he was never going to get consistent chances, even after doing well in pre-season.
So, a loan move suits everybody here. Shahar might end up playing a decent bit of football for FC Arouca and that will set him up well for the future in the senior game.
Could Nick Pope be next?
Of course, this does go to show that Newcastle United are still actively looking for the best solutions for their players, even if the English transfer window has closed.
One player who is most certainly not in a great position right now is Nick Pope. The veteran English goalkeeper was widely expected to leave this summer but for one reason or another, it did not end up happening.
Now, it is a good time for Newcastle United to try and find him a new home. Otherwise, he might need to spend time in the reserves until the winter transfer window.
