Newcastle United have just 74 days to get ready to become a club equipped for the Champions League.
Eddie Howe spent time on Saturday evening in high level talks about the next step Newcastle will take on their magical journey to Continental competition. He has already stated that "95%" of his squad will remain on Tyneside as he looks to build "two XIs".
A contract offer is on the table for Paul Dummett with the Geordie keen to stay but it remains to be seen whether the Academy product accepts the terms put to him. Howe will also look for clarity on Matt Ritchie's uncertain situation while he has already hinted strongly that Jamal Lewis, Isaac Hayden and Jeff Hendrick will leave.
READ MORE: Chelsea 1-1 Newcastle player ratings: Miley excellent in 15 minute spell as Dubravka impresses
Ciaran Clark is another who's contract is up while Loris Karius may also leave the Magpies. Where Howe strengthens is the question on every fan's lips this summer but he is keen to get players through the door in time for pre-season in early July meaning this could be a hectic month.
Nothing is in the air any more for Newcastle as they can now use the prospect of Champions League to lure stars to Tyneside next season. Howe's message after the 1-1 draw with Chelsea was straight-forward, he said: "I always say this – I think the most important people at the football club are the players we already have. I’m the type of manager that will try to get the best out of everybody here who is already under our employment. Then, we’re looking to add quality players."
Strength in depth will be a must for Howe as he looks at the left-back area, a midfielder who can play number 6 and another exciting winger with pace. Yet there is more of a squad improvement aim because for all Newcastle have done brilliantly this term, they have felt the heat at times with injuries.
Even on Sunday, Newcastle were without Sean Longstaff, Joelinton, Joe Willock, Jamaal Lascelles, Matt Ritchie and Nick Pope. Howe reflected: "It's a difficult one because we go into a lot of competitions next year so we need the depth. "This year, we've been light in certain areas of the pitch.
"We've carried in the second half of the season four midfielders. so you're one injury away from a very difficult situation so we little bit more depth, certainly with three games in a week next year."
And that is the challenge for Newcastle, to find players who can help with the strain of playing in four competitions. Remember, for all United's success this season they fell short when trying to deal with three domestic competitions with the FA Cup third round tie at Sheff Wed a stretch too far.
Next season Howe will want the backing that avoids any repeat with Euro jaunts bolted around the fixture list. It's an exciting 74 days ahead but one of the most important periods for some time.
READ NEXT
- Saudi company in running to become new Toon sponsor
- Eddie Howe pays special tribute to Newcastle United fans who stuck with team through 'dark days'
- Newcastle poach key member of staff from Leicester
- United to get 8,000 tickets for Rangers away day
- Eddie Howe well aware of what Newcastle's lofty finish means ahead of next term
