Newcastle United have now begun intensifying their summer transfer plans, and one midfielder has been scouted on multiple occasions.

With no sporting director at the club right now, Eddie Howe is believed to be leading the way when it comes to transfers.

The Newcastle manager had a strong say even with Dan Ashworth around, but is now taking on the bulk of the planning.

It’ll certainly be interesting to see where the side strengthen, given the difficult financial situation they are currently navigating.

Of course, the amount of serious injuries at the club have also complicated things no end, and perhaps means that the likes of Emil Krafth could stay for another year.

It’s known that Martin Dubravka could leave, given he wants to continue to play first-team football, which is unlikely at Newcastle when Nick Pope is fit again. 

All that being said, Newcastle do seem to have some exciting transfer plans in place themselves, even amid their possible need to sell a star player.

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And according to The Chronicle, Newcastle have been extensively scouting Chelsea midfielder Conor Gallagher of late.

Eddie Howe’s staff were present at Chelsea’s 6-0 demolition of Everton on Monday, and have now watched more than one game.

West Ham United and Tottenham Hotspur hold long-term interest in the midfielder, with Chelsea open to a conversation given their need to comply with PSR rules.

Gallagher’s price tag is thought to be around £40m, which would represent excellent value for interested parties.

Tottenham chairman Daniel Levy is known for looking to profit from such situations when rivals are forced to sell at cut-prices, as recently evidenced by a deal for Brennan Johnson.

And despite their own predicament, perhaps Newcastle could steal the march on this occasion.

Gallagher is one of a few midfielders on Newcastle’s shortlist, an area of the squad which is very strong once all are available.

But given how many games Joelinton, Joe Willock and Sandro Tonali have missed this season, further numbers are needed.

That being said, Newcastle are also thought to be in the hunt for a 22-goal striker in the summer.