Eddie Howe admits Newcastle could still be leaving despite 'difficult' transfer window now over

Eddie Howe has described Newcastle's transfer window activity as “challenging” following his side's win over Tottenham.

But while the number of new signings has been a frustration for Howe, he says Newcastle could still see players leave the club this month, with transfer windows in other countries still open.

Newcastle beat Tottenham 2-1 on Sunday, courtesy of goals from Harvey Barnes and Alejandro Isakwith the latter saving Dan Burn and Papa Nick's blushes after a clumsy own goal.

The Magpies spent almost £44m this summer, of which £28m went to Chelsea's Lewis HallBut Howe has seen it as a difficult window.

This summer, Newcastle have failed to show interest in any of Marc Guehi's players. Antonio ElangaJames Trafford, Giorgi Mamardashvili and Malick Thiaw are all coming to fruition.

Asked if he had spoken to Newcastle chairman and PIF governor Yasir Al Rumayyan, who was present at the game, Howe said: “No (I haven't spoken to him). But I hope to get in touch with them afterwards.

“A challenging summer, in a word. Challenging because we knew from the beginning that it was going to be a challenge and it was no different. The only thing I can do is tell you my feelings and that will be the same for everyone connected with the club.

“There's no one in a different position who is connected to the club who wants to do as good a job as all of us and try to improve the team, it was a challenge. But by not spending the sums that were perhaps expected, we hope that will help us in future transfer windows.

“I don’t know, as I sit here today, I hope that gives us a little bit more freedom in the future to be a little bit more proactive.”

Kieran Trippier, who announced his retirement from international football this week, remained on the bench for the clash.

The former England international has been linked with interest from Saudi Arabia and Turkey, whose transfer windows will not close until October 6 and September 13 respectively. Trippier was Also linked with Everton Earlier this summer.

And it is a move towards the latter that Howe closed on after the game against the Spurs.

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However, the Newcastle boss has mentioned Jamal Lewis as a player who could still leave.

“Of course I want Kieran here,” the Magpies boss said. “That hasn't changed and it won't change. I woke up to the stories through some messages, as it often happens, but that was the first time I heard about it.”

He continued: “Perhaps players who have been linked with a transfer, like Jamal Lewis, could leave. But we certainly hope that no one else does.”

Newcastle also hope to move on Isaac Haydenwho is currently training with the under-21 team.

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