The importance of liaising with reputable agents could be key for Newcastle United.
A good example is Newcastle’s recent £43m deal for Bazoumana Toure.
The deal progressed quickly, helped by the club’s existing relationship with his representatives, Unique Sports Group (USG).
Run by CEO Will Salthouse, USG has become one of the agencies most closely associated with Newcastle United.
The agency represents hundreds of professional footballers worldwide, several of whom have worn the black and white shirt. USG also played a role in Anthony Gordon’s Barcelona move.
For a club operating under the constraints of PSR, these kinds of relationships can be invaluable. Once trust has been established between a club and an agency, communication becomes easier and both sides begin to gain a better understanding of each other’s needs. If a club has enjoyed success with one client, it is often more likely to explore other players represented by the same agency.
This can significantly speed up the rate of recruitment for Newcastle United.
If Eddie Howe identifies a position that needs strengthening, the agent can present several suitable options. Because the agency knows the player and the club’s requirements, they can speed up the deal as negotiations are often smoother.
USG’s Newcastle United connections (past and present) are extensive. The agency looks after: Lewis Miley, Callum Wilson, Bazoumana Toure, Anthony Gordon, Malick Thiaw, and Jacob Ramsey.
The same principle applies for the Sean Steur deal.
The 18-year-old Dutch talent is represented by THE TEAM, an agency that already represents Harvey Barnes, Tino Livramento, Lewis Hall, Eddie Howe, and Johan Manzambi (the less said the better…).
It is perhaps no coincidence that Steur’s St James’ Park move emerged with very little warning.
Newcastle’s network of trusted agencies appears to be now giving the club a small edge in an increasingly competitive transfer market.