To be positively competitive in the prem.
I think Lakshmi Mittal said it all in the article on another thread today: words to the effect of shoring up the defence (presumably to competent prem standards) and getting a cutting edge striker in.
You need to win about one third of your games to be safe. If NW had Mittal's ideas in place before the opening game, there's a chance we could get into the points-scoring habit. If not it would have to be loanees and a Christmas shopping expedition to ensure 12th spot or thereabouts by May.
Once they really get hooked and pride's at stake, just can't see the owners wanting to let the baby out with the bath water.
Whilst it's clear that neither Ecclestone nor Mittal are likely to spend 'mad money', they don't appear interested in cultivating a struggling team either...