Newcastle United could and should be very busy in the January transfer window, so here’s a look at the latest rumours and reports for the Magpies.
While Newcastle bagged a crucial win against Man City last weekend in the Premier League, defeat against Marseille in the Champions League highlighted big issues for the Magpies once again.
Indeed, Eddie Howe admitted the Newcastle squad is stretched, suggesting reinforcements are needed if they are to compete in all competitions.
If Newcastle United were to make ONE signing in January? Who would you hope it is? Comment below
It is thought Howe has two priority positions to bolster in January, with the full-back area and central midfield top of the agenda for the Magpies.
So, which targets are they eyeing up? Which players could make way? And who have Newcastle already crossed off the shortlist?
Joe Willock is wanted by Crystal Palace
Despite starting against Marseille in midweek, Joe Willock may still be on his way out of Newcastle soon.
Willock proved he wants to fight for his place in the team on Tuesday night, but he’s still way down the pecking order in general.
Now, it has emerged that Crystal Palace want to sign Willock. It’s thought Newcastle will demand close to the £21m they originally paid for the midfielder.
Newcastle United’s midfield targets
Speaking of midfielders, here’s what we know about Newcastle’s various targets. First of all, Conor Gallagher will not be allowed to leave Atletico Madrid in January, so he should be off the list for Newcastle.
The same goes for Manu Kone, who Roma want to keep. The French midfielder is admired by Newcastle but is seen as a key figure for the Italian side.
Meanwhile, Newcastle sources say they won’t sign Elliot Anderson. The Nottingham Forest man is wanted by Spurs now, and Newcastle are likely to be priced out of a move.
However, there is more positive news. Kees Smit wants to join Newcastle, as long as they can guarantee him regular minutes.
- READ MORE: Incredible Champions League elimination scenario could see Newcastle United lose out on £165m
Nick Pope could be replaced
Nick Pope was blamed for Newcastle’s defeat against Marseille due to his wild mistake in rushing out of goal. There’s a chance he will be dropped by Eddie Howe for the weekend, and the issue may have even longer-lasting effects.
Apparently, Newcastle have been scouting other goalkeepers already. Guillaume Restes, who plays for Ligue 1 side Toulouse, is the latest name mentioned.
Is this still the worst mistake Nick Pope has ever made for Newcastle United?
To be fair to Pope, even Manuel Neuer made a similar error just a day later, so it can happen to the best of them. Now, it just remains to be seen whether Pope has done enough over the years to save his Newcastle career.
Newcastle United transfer round-up: Antonio Cordero, Malick Thiaw, Jack Grealish
Finally, Newcastle have realised they were right not to sign Jack Grealish. Despite the likes of Jeff Stelling telling the Magpies to strike a deal in the summer, he’s now not registered an assist since August and Newcastle will be hoping to keep him quiet this weekend.
Newcastle youngster Antonio Cordero is prepared to get a new loan deal arranged, after struggling to get regular minutes at Westerlo in Belgium. He is wanted by La Liga clubs, having impressed there last year for Malaga.
The same applies to other Newcastle youngsters who are reconsidering their loan moves. It’s said both Travis Hernes and Trevan Sanusi could also return from their respective loan spells at Groningen and Lorient.
And finally, Malick Thiaw has been tipped for a move to Chelsea. But, before we panic, that’s only the opinion of Shaun Wright-Phillips, who thinks the German would be a good signing for the Blues.
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