Newcastle planning £125m transfer raid on Premier League clubs for Champions League return

Newcastle are planning moves for Premier League trio Pedro, Elanga and Trafford, according to The Telegraph, as they prepare to return to the Champions League. All three players are thought to be interested in relocating to St James' Park, with £50m bids for Pedro and Elanga and a £25m move for Trafford verbally discussed.

Magpies manager Eddie Howe wants new signings brought in ahead of the start of pre-season in early July, but whether they get this triple move over the line remains to be seen. Newcastle were hamstrung by Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR) last year and are under similar restrictions this summer, meaning they cannot afford to overpay for any players.

Brighton have shown a willingness to sell their best players for the right price in recent years, with the likes of Moises Caicedo and Alexis Mac Allister departing for huge fees. Nottingham Forest are said to be adamant that Elanga is not for sale, but that has not deterred Newcastle in their pursuit.

Newcastle will discover their league phase opponents for their return to top-level European competition in late August and are one of six English teams in the competition alongside Liverpool, Arsenal, Manchester City, Chelsea and Tottenham.