There appears to be an outside chance that Newcastle United will be able to sign Kees Smit in the January transfer window.
Given what happened earlier this summer, fans could be forgiven for thinking that Newcastle United might struggle to land their top targets, particularly when other clubs are keen.
Smit is the latest exciting name to be linked with a move to St James’ Park, although so were Hugo Ekitike, Joao Pedro, Liam Delap and Benjamin Sesko at various points.
Hot take: I’m starting to think Newcastle United should sell Kieran Trippier in January – prove me wrong
Would be painful but need to cash in while we can! 👀
Newcastle were beaten to all of them and, rather unhelpfully, Chelsea want to sign Smit from AZ Alkmaar.
The Blues signed Pedro and Delap ahead of the Magpies this summer, so the idea of going up against them for another target is a major concern.
However, there may still be some hope left on Smit.
Newcastle United insiders think they can sign Kees Smit
That’s because, according to The Athletic, there is still some optimism among those behind the scenes that a deal for Smit can be done.
Journalist Chris Waugh suggests that some believe there are three reasons why Newcastle might actually be in a good position to win the race for the midfielder.
It’s said that there is hope that the fact that Newcastle are in a position to act quickly may help catch other teams vying for his signature out.
Who is the one player you were FURIOUS with Newcastle United for selling? Go back as far as you want!
I’ll start: I’m still not over Mike Ashley selling Andy Carroll to Liverpool all those years ago!😡
The other clubs may not necessarily have the PSR headroom or room in their squad that Newcastle do.
Being able to offer Smit regular game time is another thing that could work in their favour.
In total, the three reasons are:
- Newcastle United can afford to sign Kees Smit
- Newcastle United have room in their squad for another signing
- Newcastle United can offer Kees Smit regular game time
Obviously, none of this means that Newcastle will definitely sign Smit, but it seems it cannot be entirely ruled out just yet.
How much money Newcastle United are prepared to spend on one player in January
Though it would seem unlikely that Newcastle will go out and break the bank in January, there is money available this time around.
Eddie Howe has not been afforded the luxury of a major midseason addition in three years but, following the sale of Alexander Isak in September, there are funds.
In fact, Newcastle believe they could spend as much as £50million on one player in January.
Whether it’s Smit or not, that should put them in a strong position to strengthen their options ahead of the second half of the campaign.
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