Jonjo Shelvey Believes Newcastle Will Be As Big As Manchester City And Paris Saint-Germain

With time and patience, Jonjo Shelvey thinks Newcastle United will be as big as Manchester City and Paris Saint-Germain in the future following their big-money takeover.

Back in October, Newcastle's long-awaited takeover was completed. The Saudi Public Investment Fund provided 80% of funds for the £300 million deal, meaning Mike Ashley's unpopular reign at St James' Park was over.

Amanda Staveley, who is the co-owner of Newcastle, has promised there will be heavy investment in the club going forward.

In fact, they spent over £90million on the likes of Kieran Trippier, Bruno Guimaraes and Chris Wood in January, and many predict an even bigger transfer spend in the summer.

Since the takeover, Eddie Howe's side have exceeded expectations on the pitch. The Magpies have picked up more points in 2022 than title contenders Manchester City.

Jonjo Shelvey, who has made 24 appearances for the club in all competitions this season, believes the future is bright with Howe in charge.

"I love life here, Newcastle is a great place to live. I usually only do three years then move on, but I’m settled,” the 30-year-old midfielder told Sky Sports.

“Let’s not sugar coat it, we needed to be taken over. Everyone at the club is pulling in the one direction - the camaraderie around the place is something I’ve not seen before.

“I’ve never had a manager like this before. The first thing he did was hand everyone a sheet of paper to write down their wives' and kids' names, plus all our birthdays. He wants to know everything about everyone. I’m glad I’m his cup of tea and want to do everything to repay him.

"At some clubs you get the hump if you’re not playing. Players can toss training off at times, but at Newcastle the ones not playing are in training the next day while the others recover - they’re probably fitter than those who have played the previous day.”

Shelvey has also claimed Newcastle can be as big as some of European football's biggest hitters. “This club will be massive. I’m talking PSG and Man City massive,” he added.

“It’ll take time, and it’s a building process, but Newcastle can go to the top. We just all need to be patient. All I want is to be a part of the process.”

The former Swansea and Liverpool player, who will enter the final 12 months of his contract next season, is keen to extend his stay at St James' Park.

“I want to show the club that I warrant a couple more years,” he said.

“I’d happily hold my hands up and say I don’t deserve to be here if I felt I can’t play at this top level any more, but I want to stay as long as I can and be part of it all.”