Newcastle United finalises squad as World Cup players return and rejects low‑ball transfer offer

Several Newcastle United players who featured at the World Cup – Nick Woltemade, Bazoumana Toure, Anthony Elanga, Malick Thiaw and Yoane Wissa – have rejoined the training ground, leaving only Bruno Guimaraes and Dan Burn still absent. The club will travel to La Manga for a pre‑season camp that culminates with a friendly against Valencia on 8 August.

Newcastle turned down a £10 million bid from Turkish side Besiktas for midfielder Joe Willock, insisting on roughly £25 million. Recent signings include Leandro Trossard, Sean Steur (£23 million) and Aladji Bamba (£35.5 million). Head coach Eddie Howe is overseeing the friendlies while sporting director Ross Wilson leads the transfer negotiations. "People are going to the World Cup, and some people are having a break," Willock said, emphasizing his focus on the upcoming season.