Lee Ryder

Newcastle United players were asked to change shirts during a hydration break in the 24th minute of their pre-season friendly against Bayer Leverkusen after the teams' kits appeared too similar from behind. Newcastle switched from their home shirts to lilac third shirts while retaining their black shorts and socks, and the replacement shirts carried numbers without player names. Leverkusen scored inside the opening minute through Ibrahim Maza, while Malick Thiaw equalized before half-time. The incident was compared with Manchester United's 1996 switch away from a grey kit at Southampton.

Arsenal are reported to have agreed a guaranteed £75 million fee for Newcastle United captain Bruno Guimaraes, with the full amount to be paid upfront and no add-ons. Guimaraes has indicated that he wants to move to London and declined to negotiate a new Newcastle contract. Newcastle initially rejected Arsenal's lower offers but concluded that the deal represented the best available return, while preparing to recruit experienced replacements before Matthias Jaissle's tenure begins.

Bruno Guimaraes is reportedly interested in leaving Newcastle United for Arsenal, with his agents signalling openness to a move. Arsenal have expressed interest but have not submitted a formal offer, and Newcastle insist they do not plan to sell their captain. Reports suggest Newcastle would demand around £100m following recent high‑value departures, while Arsenal would prefer to pay closer to £60m. Concerns over Newcastle’s sporting ambitions and recent sales are believed to be factors for Guimaraes, and insiders expect a potential Arsenal bid later in the transfer window.

Newcastle United plans to install new scoreboards at St James' Park, including new displays at the Strawberry Corner and Gallowgate End, along with replacing the existing Leazes End screen. Stadium officials confirmed the upgrade will not affect seating or pitch views. A £10 million pitch redevelopment is underway to improve gradient and drainage, supporting both football matches and expanded concert use. The article also notes Sandro Tonali’s impending £100 million transfer from Newcastle to Tottenham Hotspur, which he confirmed as a welcome new challenge.

Sandro Tonali confirmed his desire to leave Newcastle for a new challenge after Tottenham agreed to meet the £100m fee and his wage demands. He credited Roberto De Zerbi as a major influence on choosing Spurs and said Newcastle acted in his best interests while securing a strong deal. His agent had informed Newcastle of his wish to move, with several clubs contacted, though Spurs were the only side to satisfy all conditions. Tonali ruled out a return to Serie A during this window but indicated he may consider playing for Milan again in the future.