Newcastle's summer reckoning: Gordon, Guimaraes, and Tonali threaten mass exodus

The Magpies have endured a miserable campaign, and the torment isn't about to end. Instead of summer respite, Newcastle United are bracing for a different nightmare entirely—one involving their biggest names plotting their departures.

With European qualification still mathematically possible, there's a slim chance of continental football next season. But a Conference League berth won't cut it for players who've grown accustomed to Champions League football. That's precisely why the St James' Park exodus could begin the moment the squad returns from Fulham on May 24.

The Gordon conundrum

Anthony Gordon arrived from Everton under a shadow in 2023, and whispers persist that his heart never truly left Merseyside. The Liverpool supporter may have simply needed Newcastle as a convenient stepping stone between two Merseyside rivals. The Toon Army have always harboured reservations about the winger, who hasn't commanded the same affection as certain teammates.

Tonali's itchy feet

If Gordon is eyeing the exit, Tonali has practically got his suitcase packed. The Italian midfielder's agent made a January move happen, but that failure hasn't dampened ambitions. Tonali would prefer a Serie A return, though neither Juventus nor other Italian clubs can match Newcastle's asking price or wage offers. At 26, there's lucrative business awaiting him elsewhere—and Premier League managers are circling.

Newcastle's supporters stuck by Tonali through his betting ban and supported him through recovery. His eagerness to depart will sting, though it's hardly unprecedented.

The Bruno dilemma

Then there's Bruno Guimaraes, the captain and the one player Newcastle can least afford to lose. Manchester United have reportedly agreed personal terms with the Brazilian, who views the World Cup as an opportunity to showcase himself if Newcastle refuse to sell beforehand.

The club appear to be relying on emotional attachment rather than sporting ambition to keep their skipper. That's a dangerous gamble. Guimaraes has embraced the north east genuinely, but heartstrings rarely triumph over career progression. At 28 and in his prime, he deserves the biggest stages—stages Newcastle cannot currently guarantee.

The leverage game

Newcastle hold stronger hands with Gordon and Tonali, both contracted until 2029. Yet both could become problematic if they sense their wishes won't be granted. Guimaraes is different. His agent is busy elsewhere, and the captain shows no urgency in extending terms.

From a business standpoint, selling Guimaraes makes sense. He's unlikely to command a bigger fee again, and given his contribution, he deserves a dignified exit. But Newcastle's fanbase won't see it that way.

The bigger picture

The Toon Army face a genuine dilemma. They're a genuinely massive club—a religion in their region, their influence spreading nationally since Saudi investment arrived. Yet PSR restrictions have hampered their ability to challenge the Big Six, a legitimate grievance that won't trouble Gordon, Tonali, or likely Guimaraes either.

Last summer's recruitment, built on Alexander Isak money, hardly inspires confidence. Newcastle can't realistically keep all three happy, and that's before considering Tino Livramento's future.

What now?

The best-case scenario? Secure Guimaraes on a new deal—one that would devastate the wage structure—while generating substantial funds from one or both of the others. Perhaps offload Tonali and convince Gordon to endure another year on Tyneside, hoping he becomes more marketable by 2027. But Liverpool's pull on Gordon's attention cannot be dismissed.

Newcastle must project control and decisiveness. PSR needn't dominate thinking this summer, and they've got a sporting director beyond Howe's immediate circle. But they'll be squeezed regardless. The difference between a successful window and a chaotic one lies in proactive decision-making rather than reactive scrambling once their stars decide their futures elsewhere.