According to The Athletic, Newcastle’s head of recruitment Steve Nickson was at St James’ Park earlier this week as the club held a series of transfer meetings ahead of the January window.
The report states that Eddie Howe is eager to bring in at least two or three new additions. A versatile forward able to compete with Miguel Almiron and ‘relieve the creative burden’ placed on Anthony Gordon is wanted, along with another midfielder to fill the gap left by the suspended Sandro Tonali.
It’s also said that the signing of a new goalkeeper looks increasingly possible after Martin Dubravka has conceded 11 goals in the five league games he’s started since Nick Pope’s injury.
A centre-back is unlikely to arrive next month, as the club have been impressed by Jamaal Lascelles’ ability to step in while Sven Botman was injured, but that avenue ‘has not been ruled out’ incase the Dutchman’s knee issues resurface over the coming weeks.
It’s thought there’s ‘some room for manoeuvre’ regarding our budget, despite ongoing FFP restrictions limiting the extent of our spending, although initial loan deals are being explored alongside free agents.
Inflated prices in the mid-season window means the bulk of our spending in 2024 is likely to be this summer, yet we’re expected to be ‘active’ this month and on the lookout for players able to have an immediate impact, with Howe keen to add ‘athleticism and tactical flexibility’ to his squad.
