Ameobi sees no rush for Toon change

SHOLA Ameobi insists Newcastle United’s transformation will be a ‘slow process’ ahead of an anticipated summer transfer window.

Fan excitement is at fever pitch following the £300million Saudibacked takeover and the

Magpies’ surge towards Premier League safety.

The new regime splashed out £90million in January to aid Eddie Howe in his quest for survival, all five signings playing their part in United’s resurgence.

With the threat of relegation dissolved, the new regime should find luring players to St James’ Park easier this summer.

Former striker Ameobi, however, does not expect wholesale changes on Tyneside.

He said: “It is going to be a slow process. We have the Fair Play rules to adhere to.

“It is going to be something the new owners want to do systematically.

“I am not one to clear the books because I think you lose the heart and colour of what you have tried to build.

“So I imagine there will be two or three coming in.”

Newcastle’s sublime form in 2022 has given them a chance of finishing in the top 10 for just the fourth time in 15 years - a feat which seemed unimaginable a few months ago.

Ameobi believes cementing a top-half finish should be the priority but did not rule out the possibility of European escapades returning for Toon fans in the near future.

He added: “Next season, you want to be in the top half.

“If we can nab a European spot. I think that would be a great launching pad to try and get those players we want.

“That will certainly be a target Eddie Howe, the team and the players should be having with what we have done this second half of the season. If we start like that, why not?

“Look at the likes of West Ham and what they have done.

“There is no reason why Newcastle, with the resources which will be coming in, cannot achieve that next year.”