By Pete O'Rourke, Transfer Correspondent

26th Oct, 2023 | 7:00pm

Sources: Newcastle United blocked from completing two signings by FFP

Financial Fair Play restrictions prevented Newcastle United from adding reinforcements in two key areas in the most recent summer window, sources have told Football Insider.

It is believed the Magpies were planning to add another centre-back and attacking player in the main window – and Saudi owners PIF had sanctioned the deals – but abandoned the deals with FFP proving too difficult to navigate.

Newcastle made four big-money signings in the summer – with Sandro Tonali, Harvey Barnes, Tino Livramento and Yankuba Minteh all arriving at St James’ Park on permanent deals.

Lewis Hall also signed on a loan-to-buy basis from Chelsea in a deal which defers payment until 2024 and circumvents FFP restrictions.

However, Eddie Howe’s nightmares have become a reality with injuries to Barnes and Sven Botman causing real issues for the Magpies.

Alexander Isak and Jacob Murphy also suffered injuries in Wednesday’s (25 October) Champions League defeat at home against Borussia Dortmund.

Meanwhile, Tonali has been banned from football for 10 months after breaching betting rules during his time in Italy.

Livramento and Hall, who were signed as back-ups, are yet to make a real impression for Newcastle.

Newcastle’s Saudi owners have the capability to plough their riches into the club but must abide by FFP rules to avoid fines, point deductions and possible European bans.

The regulations stipulate that a club’s total expenditure on transfers, wages and agent fees must not exceed 70% of its total revenue.

Howe’s side sit sixth in the Premier League on 16 points despite their struggles with injuries and the situation involving Tonali.

The Magpies are next in action against Wolves on Saturday (28 October).

In other news, Newcastle could sign Darwin Nunez ally in real bargain.