Since the takeover in October 2021, Newcastle United have welcomed a host of new faces, transforming the club both on and off the pitch.
However, it was the first five signings of the PIF era that truly set the tone for the revolution that followed.
Here, Transfer News Blitz writer Charlotte Allsop takes a look at where those signings are now.
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Kieran Trippier
Kieran Trippier became the first signing of the PIF era when he arrived from Atlético Madrid in January 2022 for £12 million.
His arrival signalled Newcastle’s intent to do far more than simply avoid relegation, bringing leadership, experience and elite mentality to a struggling side.
Four years on, Trippier remains on Tyneside, having made 106 Premier League appearances for the Magpies.
While he is no longer an automatic starter, his influence remains significant.
Joining a team battling relegation, the England international played a key role in Newcastle’s rise to Champions League football and their historic Carabao Cup triumph, cementing his legacy as a cornerstone of the club’s resurgence.
Chris Wood
Chris Wood joined from Burnley in January 2022 for £25 million, tasked with providing an immediate goal threat during Newcastle’s relegation fight.
While his impact was more functional than prolific, Wood scored five goals in 39 appearances, contributing vital experience and physical presence.
In January 2023, he joined Nottingham Forest on loan before completing a permanent move that summer.
Since then, the New Zealand international has flourished, scoring 37 Premier League goals for Forest and even finding the net in his sole Europa League appearance.
Dan Burn
Dan Burn returned to his boyhood club in January 2022, signing from Brighton for £13 million in a move that initially raised eyebrows.
Those doubts were quickly silenced. Burn has become a fan favourite and a dependable figure in Newcastle’s defence, embodying commitment and versatility.
From scoring in a Carabao Cup final to earning international recognition, his time at St James’ Park has exceeded expectations.
Despite suffering rib and lung injuries in the derby, Burn has still made 26 appearances in all competitions this season, with a return anticipated in the coming weeks.
Matt Targett
Matt Targett initially joined Newcastle on loan from Aston Villa in January 2022, before making the move permanent that June for £15 million.
After an impressive loan spell, the left-back struggled to replicate that form following his permanent arrival. Injuries and ongoing health issues hampered his progress, limiting his impact.
In August 2025, Targett joined Championship side Middlesbrough on loan as he looked to reignite his career away from Tyneside.
Bruno Guimarães
Arguably the most transformative signing of the early takeover era, Bruno Guimarães arrived from Lyon in January 2022 for £40 million.
His signing perfectly encapsulated the new owners’ ambition, bringing Champions League-level quality to the heart of Newcastle’s midfield.
The Brazilian has since captained the club to their first domestic trophy in 70 years and established himself as one of the Premier League’s standout midfielders.
Talented, passionate and influential, Guimarães remains central to Eddie Howe’s project and a symbol of Newcastle United’s bright future.
