Newcastle United haven't quite got going in the summer transfer window, but Eddie Howe has a plan and is beginning to put it into action.

Despite missing out on a host of top targets, the Tynesiders will be confident that they can make something meaningful out of a transfer window that is preceded by the Magpies' success in winning the Carabao Cup and qualifying for the Champions League.

They will need to recover from the slew of setbacks which has seen them miss out on Dean Huijsen, Bryan Mbeumo, Matheus Cunha and Joao Pedro.

And things are gathering pace on that front.

Newcastle looking to kickstart transfer window

Newcastle have reportedly launched a fresh attempt worth £50m + to sign Nottingham Forest's Anthony Elanga and their pursuit of new talent isn't going to stop there.

Burnley goalkeeper James Trafford is also anticipated to be on the verge of joining the St. James' Park ranks, having been hailed for his "world-class" level by manager Scott Parker earlier in 2025.

With a goalkeeper and a new winger potentially ticked off, it's over to the midfield. While it isn't regarded as the highest priority by Howe and Co, the opportunity to sign Matteo Guendouzi might be too good to resist.

As per reports in Italy, translated by Sport Witness, Newcastle have joined Aston Villa and rivals Sunderland in preparing a bid for the Lazio midfielder, who is valued at €50m (£43m).

Guendouzi, 26, is a valued member of Maurizio Sarri's squad, but financial concerns may force them to cash in.

Why Newcastle want Matteo Guendouzi

France international and former Arsenal star Guendouzi never hit his finest form when cutting his teeth as a Gunner, however, he was always regarded as a "monster in the making" by talent scout Jacek Kulig.

He completed 66 fixtures under Unai Emery's wing before moving back to his homeland. A stint with Marseille led to rehousing in the Serie A with Lazio, where he has now performed for the past two campaigns, featuring prominently.

His combative and progressive mix of qualities, hardened by his time in Italy, suggests he could be Howe's next version of Sandro Tonali, who served as an inimitable maestro for Newcastle last season.

Guendouzi, indeed, ranked among the top 10% of midfielders across Europe's top five leagues for pass completion, the top 5% for progressive passes, the top 7% for progressive carries and the top 19% for shot-creating actions per 90, as per FBref.

Press-resistant and confident in their roles, Guendouzi would add competition for the Italian, who was so instrumental for Newcastle's incredible resurgence last term.

Indeed, with Sean Longstaff potentially being sold, the need for such a signing is underscored.

Both players operate so fluidly in the middle of the park, and Guendouzi could add the perfect bit of depth to ensure Newcastle pull their weight across domestic and continental competitions in 2025/26.

Newcastle have already hit the jackpot with one midfield signing brought over from the Italian scene; might they strike gold once again?