Will Ashley provide the funds, or sit back and see what Pardew's got to offer with the players he bought in January?
Many people have put the failures down to Pardew's weird and bizarre tactics, but some of it was down to the small Newcastle squad.
Bear in mind that players like Danny Simpson, Steve Harper and maybe even Fabricio Coloccini have played their last games for the club.
Where do we need to strengthen?
•Goalkeeper – Tim Krul is undoubtedly Newcastle’s number 1 goalkeeper, with Rob Eliott, his deputy. Is there is a need for a new goalkeeper unless in-demand Krul moves on?
•Defence – Simpson is gone and could well be followed by Coloccini and by Mike Williamson. So there is a need for a full back that can cover the right defensive flank, or if Pardew intends to use Santon as a right back, then a left back is needed. In addition the club needs one or maybe two center backs depending on who goes out.
•Midfield – Whatever happens in this area somewhat depends on what the manager has in his mind regarding this choice of formation. If he wants to play a 4-4-2, then there is a need for a couple of wingers. Jonas Gutierrez cannot be classified as a winger anymore; Marveaux and Gouffran are not wingers and Obertan has not delivered consistently. We certainly need a free-scoring attacking midfielder like Kevin Nolan - who obviously hasn't been replaced.
•Strikers – There is only striker currently at the club - Papiss Cisse. If you believe the rumours, Shola Ameobi is on his way, and is frankly not good enough. Newcastle need to bring in at least one proven striker. It's frightening to hear Pardew say youngster Adam Campbell will be part of our Premier League strike-force next season. You win NOTHING with kids, particularly with bairns in the forward-line.
How many players do we need?
How many will we get?
And with the Mackems looking at genuine European quality from Italy ... and capable of getting them ... this could be the most important summer transfer window for years.