Newcastle 'Wanted Seven Players' After Saudi Takeover in Disastrous Wish List

Newcastle United reportedly wanted seven players during one of their first transfer windows following the 2021 takeover.

Back in October 2021, it was confirmed that a Saudi Arabia-led consortium had completed the takeover of Newcastle for £300 million.

At the time, it was reported that the Saudi Public Investment Fund took an 80% stake, with PCP Capital Partners and Reuben Brothers each taking 10%.

Speaking after the deal was completed, PIF governor Yasir Al-Rumayyan said: "We are extremely proud to become the new owners of Newcastle United, one of the most famous clubs in English football.

"We thank the Newcastle fans for their tremendously loyal support over the years, and we are excited to work together with them."

Since then, Newcastle have invested heavily and have been rewarded with Champions League qualification.

The Magpies also ended their trophy drought by winning the 24/25 Carabao Cup, beating eventual Premier League winners Liverpool 2-1 at Wembley.

Newcastle United won the Carabao Cup during the 24/25 season. Image: Getty

Back in 2022, it was reported that Newcastle had seven players on their wish list.

As per The Mirror, Newcastle were interested in Lloyd Kelly, Yves Bissouma, Kalvin Phillips, Darwin Nunez, Dominic Calvert-Lewin, Dean Henderson and Sam Johnstone.

Of the above-mentioned players, only Kelly was brought to St. James' Park as he left Bournemouth for Newcastle in 2024.

However, the centre-back joined Serie A giants Juventus in the summer of 2025 for a reported fee of €17.5 million.

During the same transfer window, Newcastle sold striker Alexander Isak to Liverpool for a British transfer record worth £125 million.

In terms of incomings, the Magpies brought in the likes of Nick Woltemade, Anthony Elanga, Yoane Wissa, Jacob Ramsey and Malick Thiaw.

Following last weekend's defeat in the Tyne-Wear Derby against rivals Sunderland, Eddie Howe's men currently sit 12th in the Premier League table.

Newcastle are back in action on Wednesday night when they take on Fulham in the Carabao Cup quarter-finals.