Newcastle won’t pay “silly” money for transfer targets, according to Howe.

Though negotiations for a move for Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi are still ongoing, Newcastle manager Eddie Howe has stated that the team will not pay “silly” money for transfer targets. Head coach Howe said they wouldn’t be held hostage over any player while speaking to the media at his pre-game news conference on Friday morning, amid rumours that the Magpies had made a fourth approach for the England international, who is valued at £65 million.

When asked if the club had ever backed out of a deal, he responded, “We have done so many times in my time here, especially in the early days when there was very much a ‘Newcastle tax’ on any deal where the price would double. For that reason, we would often say, ‘No, that’s not for us, we’re not going down that road where we feel we’re overpaying for players.'”

“That’s changed slightly because people have seen the dynamic, that we’re not going to pay silly fees for players, so I think now it’s returned more to normality.” Howe was asked if any transactions were close, and he answered, “Not that I know of.” However, he declined to comment on Guehi in particular. He went on, “We have hope.” We’re putting in a lot of effort. Outside effort is not lacking, but as I already stated, nothing comes close.”