Five surprising signings for Steve McClaren Newcastle United

Following the high profile signings of Georginio Wijnaldum and Aleksandar Mitrovic at Newcastle United, new boss Steve McClaren has said that the next signings might surprise supporters, with the club 11/4 with Coral for a top 10 Premier League finish next term.

Having also added Congolese defender Chancel Mbemba who links up with teammate at Anderlecht last season, Mitrovic, McClaren has more up his sleeve.

“We’re forever working. People are mentioning this and that [but] believe you and me, we have a lot of names that people have not got hold of yet. We have been close with them,” said the Magpies boss who is due back from the United States with his squad.

“At the moment we have two in and I am sure we are looking for others. But as I say they have to be the right ones.”

As a result, we take a look at five possible surprise signings who the Tynside outfit could bring in, with Mike Ashley promising a considerable transfer purse this summer.

Joel Veltman
The Ajax centre back, who featured in Louis van Gaal’s world cup side last summer would be a sensational addition and join an ever-growing contingent of Dutch footballers at St James’ Park. With current Netherlands right back Daryl Janmaat already there, the duo would resume the partnership they have shared at international level.

McClaren has already recruited Wijnaldum from the Eredivisie this summer and has good connections there following his stint as FC Twente boss.

Mario Balotelli
Might relish the chance to become the main man at a club with a huge fan following such as Newcastle. There is no doubt he would score goals while also adding a considerable amount of quality to the Magpies’ forward line and the club are known for signing cult hero figures, such as Patrick Kluivert and Michael Owen.

Sulley Muntari
Newcastle don’t necessarily have to pay a fee for a player if they are good enough to strengthen the side courtesy of a free transfer. The former AC and Inter Milan man, who won the treble with the latter may be too good to refuse and his experience could have a huge impact, especially with younger members of the side. Should he sign on a free transfer, he would be an incredible coup.

Emmanuel Adebayor
Put up for sale by Tottenham, Newcastle could be tempted to add support to their attacking options. He is proven in the Premier League and is still regarded as a big name, though the stumbling block could be his £100k per week wages.

Taylan Antalyali
The 20-year-old Turkish talent who plays for Genclerbirligi is attracting interest from a number of clubs and fans will remember his compatriot Emre Belozoglu who excelled at the club. Antalyali, like his elder statesman plays in the same position and become a key part of a quality group of youngsters on Tyneside.