Eddie Howe in line for big PIF boost if Newcastle can complete one objective this season

Newcastle United could be in line for a big boost from their owners if they can secure European football for the next campaign.

Newcastle look like a completely different club to the one they were this time last year. Indeed, they were toying with relegation when Eddie Howe was appointed as manager.

Bringing the manager in to replace Steve Bruce was the first big change after the club’s takeover by the Saudi Public Investment Fund.

While the takeover and new management looked to be positive, there was still work to be done. Indeed, Howe took charge last November, with the Magpies five points from Premier League safety, in 19th place.

It was a mixed start under the former Bournemouth manager. Indeed, out of the first eight league games he took charge of, Newcastle won just one.

However, the January transfer window allowed him to begin putting his own touches on the squad. The biggest additions were Bruno Guimaraes and Kieran Trippier, both of which made an impact and continue to do so.

The Magpies ended up finishing in 11th, a great achievement considering how the season started. This season, they have built upon that, and are establishing themselves as a big name once again.

Indeed, they are currently fourth in the Premier League, and have lost just one game so far. Squad improvements have continued, and Sven Botman, Nick Pope and Alexander Isak – though the latter currently injured – have all become central to the side.

Big boost coming following achievement

Improvements will no doubt continue to be made as Newcastle attempt to cement their status as one of the league’s big boys. Magpies expert George Caulkin feels the club may be in line for a big boost if they can secure European football.

“If they do end the season in a European place, you can guarantee that they [PIF] would recognise what that means for the club and for the squad, and they will strengthen,” he said on Pod On The Tyne.

“The results are one thing and performances are another thing, and they’re both mind-bending. I’m still finding it mind-bending, seeing this improvement. But so is that other side of the club, knowing that in a year’s time, the squad will be stronger.

“It doesn’t mean they’ll get every decision right, because you can’t, but this club and squad will be stronger, you can guarantee that. That’s an amazing feeling to have.”

Newcastle will no doubt become a stronger side with more quality added to the ranks. The players they have signed under Howe, for the most part, have been great additions.

As such, it would not be a surprise if more players come in that fit perfectly. The fact that talented players are being bought is an achievement in itself, in comparison to previous seasons.

Newcastle can finish strongly

If the condition of the Magipies being given big money to spend is finishing in a European place, they may well be able to do so. Indeed, the fact that they have lost just once this season – to Liverpool – shows their strength.

They have drawn to both Manchester clubs, as well as Tottenham, showing they can contend with the big hitters.

It would not be a surprise if they continue their good form and end up in a European football spot.

That achievement would be massive after the last few years they have endured.