Alan Shearer details what Newcastle must do to challenge for title next season

Newcastle secured a return to the Champions League and won a trophy with Alan Shearer claiming their transfer business will be key to them challenging for the Premier League

Alan Shearer claims Newcastle need to add three or four players capable of going straight into the first-team and then they “won’t be far away” as they look to build on a season where they landed a trophy and secured a top five finish.

The Magpies have built steadily since their Saudi owners came in but produced a historic season under Eddie Howe. They want to continue climbing the Premier League ladder but finished way off champions Liverpool.

Newcastle have been able to mix it with the likes of Liverpool, Arsenal and Manchester City in one-off games, but have struggled to maintain form enough to challenge for the title.

That is the ultimate ambition, which is aided by the likes of Alexander Isak, Sandro Tonali and Bruno Guimaraes. Shearer insists the club need to bring in players who can slot straight into the starting XI and make an impact if they want to bridge the gap.

He told Betfair: “Newcastle have to go out, spend and bring in at least three or four first-team players that are not only going to challenge, but get into the first-team. And if they do that, they won’t be far away next season. They’ll be challenging for trophies again next season.

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“You’ve got to remember that Newcastle haven’t signed anyone of significance for three transfer windows now. That tells you that there has to be cash available and they have to provide Eddie Howe with the reinforcements he needs because if you’re not learning from how the last Champions League campaign went, then what’s the point?

In recent years Howe has been able to add depth to his squad, bringing in the likes of Lewis Hall. They are not the blockbuster additions of Isak and co however and with Champions League revenue coming in Shearer wants to see major moves made.

The Premier League legend is also confident that Alexander Isak will remain at St James’ Park. The Swede is one of Europe’s most impressive forwards and has been linked with £100million plus moves away, but Newcastle can currently offer him everything he needs.

“Alexander Isak is going nowhere,” he said. “He’s got his contract, Newcastle have won a trophy and qualified for Champions League football so from my point of view, there’s no worry about losing him but what Newcastle have to do is make this a regular.”

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