This season has been remarkable for Newcastle United as they ended their agonisingly long wait for silverware with a Carabao Cup triumph over Liverpool last month.
Celebrations have been somewhat short-lived, however, due to the pressing need to qualify for next season's Champions League. Focus has had to shift back to domestic action and the competitive battle for top four.
Whether Newcastle return to UEFA's premier competition will undoubtedly have a significant bearing on their transfer business this summer. But, that hasn't stopped the rumour mill from turning, so here is a look at some of the biggest transfer stories involving the Magpies...
Newcastle 'identify' Trippier replacement
Newcastle have 'entered the picture' to sign Real Sociedad right back Jon Aramburu, according to outlet D Sports. The article describes the 22-year-old as one of the most sought after young defenders in the game, with a number of top European suitors.
St James' Park has been named as a potential destination for the youngster, along with Atletico de Madrid and Inter Milan. A deal won't be cheap, however, as Aramburu extended his deal with Sociedad until 2030 earlier this year and it has been suggested he has a €60m release clause.
Speculation comes amid uncertainty over the future of Kieran Trippier. The 34-year-old has endured numerous injury problems in recent years, while he was linked with a move away from the club in the January transfer window.
Chronicle Live says: "While a potential Trippier departure in the summer should prompt movement on the right back front, the price-tag is astronomical. The Venezuelan's versatility, with the report suggesting he can play on either flank, understandably makes him an attractive prospect.
"That said, Howe already has a ready-made replacement for Trippier in his squad in Tino Livramento. It seems a little bit unbelievable that Newcastle would make a relative unknown their second most expensive signing in history behind Alexander Isak."
Harvey Elliott asking price 'emerges'
Defender Jarell Quansah isn't the only Liverpool star being linked with a move to Newcastle this summer as Harvey Elliott has also been tipped to join the club in recent times. The 22-year-old has struggled for regular game time under Arne Slot this season, which has resulted in widespread speculation over his long-term future at Anfield.
According to Football Insider, Newcastle are prepared to pay over the odds to tempt Liverpool to the table, although it has previously been suggested the Merseyside outfit are desperate to keep the player despite his limited minutes this term. It would likely take a fee of £40-£50m to prise him from Liverpool, which could prove to be a step too far for the Magpies.
Chronicle Live says: "There is no denying Elliott would have plenty of suitors if he is to become available this summer. Newcastle also have a track record of snapping up English talent.
"However, a deal is probably wishful thinking at this stage given the player would no doubt be reluctant to leave the club he has grown up supporting and he has previously stated his determination to fight for his place. Even if Newcastle are prepared to pay over the odds, it's unlikely they would be willing to meet those kinds of figures."
Bayern 'enter race' for Newcastle target
Newcastle will face competition from European heavyweights Bayern Munich if they are to revisit their interest in AC Milan defender Malick Thiaw this summer. Reports in Italy emerged last year suggesting they were interested in the 23-year-old but were some way short of the Serie A club's €40m asking price.
While it is not yet known whether Newcastle will return for the player ahead of next season, Calciomercato now say that they have cooled their interest and Bayern have emerged as front-runners.
It has been claimed Vincent Kompany was present at Milan's Coppa Italia match against Inter midweek as Bayern face the latter in the Champions League quarter-finals next week, but he was also rumoured to be watching Thiaw ahead of a potential summer move.
Chronicle Live says: "Centre back is certainly a position Newcastle are looking to strengthen in the summer and it has been for some time. But, they must be meticulous in their business and cannot pay over the odds for players.
"If Milan lower their asking price for the Germany international in the summer it will be interesting to see if Newcastle are tempted back to the table. However, if a club of Bayern's size, wealth and stature are in the picture, it will likely be too big of an ask to get any deal over the line."
