Newcastle United have been linked with a number of January transfer targets ahead of next month’s window opening.
Eddie Howe’s side were dumped out of Europe this week, losing 2-1 to AC Milan in the Champions League. That result also saw them fail to qualify for the Europa League knockouts after finishing bottom of Group F.
Wednesday’s defeat aside, the Magpies have been in fine form at St James’ Park this season, winning seven of eight Premier League games. Their only home defeat in the league was a 2-1 loss to Liverpool in August.
But with just one away victory all season – at bottom club Sheffield United – their away form needs to improve.
One method of altering Newcastle’s fortunes may be a dip into the January transfer market. With the window opening in just over two weeks, here’s a look at some of Newcastle’s January transfer targets:
Who Are Newcastle’s January Transfer Targets?
One Newcastle transfer rumour that refuses to go away is Hugo Ekitike. The French forward appeared close to a deal in the summer of 2022, before opting to join Paris Saint-Germain.
But with the 21-year-old playing just eight minutes of football for the Ligue 1 side this season, an exit seems likely. Newcastle are reportedly pursuing a loan move in January, with the possibility of a permanent deal in the summer.
Another rumoured Newcastle January signing is Manchester City’s Kalvin Phillips. The England international has been starved of minutes at the Etihad, and Pep Guardiola all but confirmed his exit in recent weeks.
With the former Leeds United midfielder needing game time to secure a place in Gareth Southgate’s squad for this summer’s European Championships, could we see him move to the North East?
🚨 Newcastle will make loan moves for Manchester City's Kalvin Phillips and PSG’s Hugo Ekitike in January.
(Source: Times) pic.twitter.com/hdMcyZEOW9
— Transfer News Live (@DeadlineDayLive) November 25, 2023
It’s no secret that Newcastle’s January transfer wish list includes a goalkeeper. Number one shot-stopper Nick Pope dislocated his shoulder against Manchester United and will be out for four months after having surgery.
Martin Dubravka has filled in for the England international since, but with him and unfavored Loris Karius the only keepers available, they may bring in another.
The biggest name linked to Newcastle’s goalkeeping department is David De Gea. The former Manchester United captain left Old Trafford in July after contract negotiations broke down.
As a result, the 45-cap Spanish international is a free agent. With no fees involved, De Gea could be a superb option on a short-term deal.
Why Isn’t Neves Joining Newcastle?
One Newcastle transfer rumour less likely to come true is Ruben Neves signing . The former Wolves man joined Saudi club Al-Hilal in the summer, but has been linked with a move back to the Premier League.
However, despite confirming interest from Newcastle, Neves has recently ruled out a move to St James’ Park.
He said: “There was Newcastle interest before I came here but I’m really happy here, my family’s really happy, so I’m having a great time.
“Everything is going really well for me and I want to stay here,” he added. There had been controversy surrounding a potential move, with Al-Hilal one of four Pro League clubs owned by Saudi’s Public Investment Fund.
The PFI are the majority owners of Newcastle. But despite the controversy, Neves would have been allowed to join after Premier League clubs voted to oppose a ban on incoming loans between clubs with the same owners.
How Much Can Newcastle Spend In January?
Since Eddie Howe took over as manager in November 2021, Newcastle have spent close to £400 million. Alexander Isak (£60 million), Sandro Tonali (£55 Million) and Anthony Gordon (£45 million) are the biggest of these deals.
While financial backing is no longer an issue for the club, they must still be careful. Everton have already taken a ten point deduction for breaching profit and sustainability regulations.
With Manchester City currently under investigation for around 100 potential financial fair play breaches over a nine-year period, Newcastle must not spend beyond their limits.
There is no doubt that Eddie Howe will have cash to burn in January, but he may not be able to blow quite as many millions as in previous windows.
Fabrizio Romano Newcastle News
As for the verdict of transfer guru Fabrizio Romano, he has confirmed the Newcastle rumours around De Gea.
According to the Italian journalist, De Gea would be interested in joining the Magpies.
🗣️ Fabrizio Romano: “De Gea is waiting, De Gea would love to sign for Newcastle, De Gea is just waiting for a call.”
Over to you, Newcastle 📱👀https://t.co/xZqYkiL8oF
— TEAMtalk (@TEAMtalk) December 13, 2023
Another goalkeeping option mentioned by Romano for Newcastle is England international, Aaron Ramsdale. The Arsenal man has fallen out of favour at the Emirates, with Spaniard David Raya playing all but four Premier League matches for Mikel Arteta’s men.
🔴⚪️ Arteta: "I can't tell you that any Arsenal player is not going to leave in January. Or he is to stay here for the next three years".
"I cannot guarantee that nobody is going to be leaving in January. For Newcastle [question was on Ramsdale and #NUFC] or any other club". pic.twitter.com/9HzwiGx5UE
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) December 5, 2023
Another cheap option, Ramsdale would be an ideal temporary replacement for injured England teammate Nick Pope.
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