Three in, nine out at Toon as Barton rebuilds
Joey Barton has shown his desire to completely revamp the Newcastle squad, with already nine players going out the Newcastle door. Steven Taylor, Ryan Taylor as well as Dan Gosling finalized moves to Nottingham Forest for a total fee of around 7 million. Spanish forward Xisco left on a free transfer while Rob Elliot moved to Blackpool for the mere fee of 725k. Mehdi Abeid left for Livorno, Ianis Zicu to Atlanta, Haris Vuckic to Birmingham, as well as Sammy Ameobi to Leeds, the latter transfer on loan.
Meanwhile, three more signings are confirmed following the arrival of Fulham's Brede Hangeland.
Promising English keeper
Jack Butland has arrived from Birmingham for 3 million plus Haris Vuckic, and it remains to be seen whether the youngster, first-choice keeper for Birmingham last season, will be able to oust Tim Krul. The U21 England international has 16 U21 caps to his name so far and will wear the No 1 shirt.
Barton's second signing is one that will be familiar.
Apostolos Vellios arrives from Everton for a 6 million fee and will take the No 16 shirt. Having known each other from their time at Everton, Vellios holds Barton in high regard and Barton thinks that the Greek will be an integral part of Newcastle's future.
The third signing is also one that is familiar, with
Felipe Anderson, who joined Everton on a six-month loan deal in January, will now join Barton again at Newcastle for a loan fee of 1 million with a 5 million option to buy, and will wear the No 21 shirt - the same number he wore at Everton.
"Expect more signings," was all Barton said when quizzed of any further foraying into the summer transfer window.