On the day of the transfer deadline, Newcastle United signed young Alfie Harrison from Manchester City.

After a hectic summer that saw the entrance of Sandro Tonali, Harvey Barnes, Lewis Hall, and Tino Livramento, along with Yankuba Minteh, Cathal Heffernan, and Travis Hernes, the 18-year-old is the only new player the Magpies have made during the winter window. As they attempted to comply with the Premier League’s profit and sustainability regulations, it became evident at the beginning of January that the Toon Army would not be able to continue such operations without outgoing transfers.

Callum Wilson, Miguel Almiron, and Kieran Trippier were all connected to St. James’ Park departures but ultimately remained. As the clock ran down, Eddie Howe said that, given the difficulty of acquiring new players, he would be happy to keep his current group.

The Newcastle manager didn’t anticipate much movement in the northeast following Newcastle’s victory over Aston Villa in the middle of the week. “I expect to be finished for the window,” he stated. I believe there isn’t much time left to take any action, inside or outside the house.

That’s the current situation. I don’t believe we are capable of anything. Though there is still time, nothing will happen as far as I am aware at this time.

Howe had admitted earlier in January that FFP regulations were a “annoyance for everyone associated with us,” since they prevented Newcastle from utilising their financial advantage. The ex-Bournemouth manager conceded that his group is “playing as we can.”

But Newcastle’s goals go beyond just bolstering the starting lineup, and Harrison’s signing reflects their philosophy for the entire organisation. Injuries have given players like Lewis Miley more opportunity this season, but the Geordies are still committed to strengthening their academy programme.

As part of a reorganisation, Newcastle welcomed Paul Midgley and Paul McLaren from Manchester City as head of youth recruitment and head of national youth scouting, respectively, for 13 to 18-year-olds last summer. The school director is former custodian Steve Harper, who clarified that Harrison’s signing—which might cost as much as £3.5 million—continues to be a part of a larger strategy.