Newcastle eye four January loans and defender up for sale - Report

It’s set to be a big month for Newcastle United in the January transfer market, in terms of both incoming and outgoing players.

The search for a young midfielder from Europe to join the squad goes on, with Kees Smit seemingly off the table (and catching the eye of Real Madrid) the likes of Kevin Danois and Luciano Valente remain sought-after targets.

Meanwhile the situation surrounding Joe Willock remains unclear, as whilst he is attracting Premier League interest, the latest reports hint that he could be here until at least the end of the season.

And according to a new report, we could be seeing more than just Willock depart this month, as four of our top youngsters may be sent out on loan - and there’s some surprising inclusions…

Four youngsters could depart

The Athletic report that Newcastle are exploring January loans to secure first-team minutes for youngsters Sean Neave, Leo Shahar, Alfie Harrison and Alex Murphy.

Neave, Shahar and Murphy have each featured in Eddie Howe’s matchday squads in recent weeks amidst our earlier injury crisis, but now that looks to be easing with Wissa, Livramento, Trippier and Hall all fit, any opportunities may dry up beyond Saturday's FA Cup clash with Bournemouth.

We can predict that Neave and Shahar, should they be sent out on loan this window, will do so upon the conclusion of our UEFA Youth League campaign, where both have featured prominently despite our ongoing winless run in the competition.

Murphy is a more interesting case to ponder: he’s one of the very few natural left backs available to Howe, and would be a fine rotation option should Lewis Hall become injured or fatigued and none of Tino Livramento, Kieran Trippier or Dan Burn are available to deputise in Hall’s absence.

Harrison, meanwhile, is a player who has been clamouring for proper minutes for some time now: signed from Manchester City to much hype and anticipation back in February 2024, the 20-year-old has the talent needed to succeed, but just needs to be afforded the right opportunity.

Ashby for sale

Speaking of fullbacks and departures, it looks like the end of the road is approaching for Harrison Ashby, whose days here on Tyneside may be numbered.

The Athletic state that he has been made available for permanent transfer, having failed to make a senior appearance for us since his move from West Ham back in 2023.

Though he did previously train with the senior squad back in the summer, another stint in the Championship seems most likely for the 24-year-old: a shame considering the £3m fee and genuine potential he arrived with from West Ham.