Author: Mumeen Sanni

21 Oct 24 Mumeen Sanni

“Decision has been made on January Transfer” Eddie Howe shares an update on whether Newcastle is going to get a New Central Back and a Winger during January Transfer.Newcastle United’s January Transfer Strategy: Key Needs and Priorities As the January transfer window approaches, Eddie Howe is turning his attention to bolstering Newcastle United’s squad, particularly in the areas of centre-back and right winger. The disappointment stemming from the previous summer transfer window looms large, especially after the club’s sporting director, Paul Mitchell, was unable to secure a significant signing during his inaugural window in charge. This lack of reinforcement is now having a noticeable impact on the team’s performance. Prominent pundit Alan Shearer has criticized the club’s management, arguing that Eddie Howe was not adequately supported in the transfer market, a situation that must be rectified when the window opens again in January. Newcastle’s Transfer Targets for January Newcastle is likely to have funds available for investment, particularly since they had shown a willingness to spend over £60 million on defender Marc Guehi in the summer, only for that deal to fall through. While Guehi was the club’s primary target earlier this year, the focus may shift as January approaches. Reports suggest that Newcastle’s top priority will be securing a winger, as Howe seeks to find a player who can effectively partner with key forwards Alexander Isak and Anthony Gordon. Despite the focus on a winger, Newcastle remains interested in Guehi, who may be on the move from Crystal Palace in 2025. There are indications that Palace is prepared to part ways with Guehi, creating a potential opportunity for Newcastle to pursue him in January. Challenges in Pursuing Dual Signings However, the prospect of acquiring both a winger and a centre-back during the winter transfer window appears slim. According to The Athletic, the club is unlikely to secure players for both positions, with the winger being the more pressing need. This prioritization makes sense given the current squad dynamics. Justification for Prioritizing a Winger Focusing on a winger over a centre-back seems to be the right move for Newcastle. Throughout the summer transfer discussions, it remains puzzling why the club did not recognize the critical need for a right winger. Neither Jacob Murphy nor Miguel Almiron has convincingly demonstrated their worth as starters in Howe’s tactical setup. Additionally, the manager has been hesitant to position Anthony Gordon on the right flank, which limits his attacking options. Since the change in ownership, the right wing has been notably neglected, and many argue that it is the only position still missing a key player when the squad is fully fit. On the other hand, the urgency for a new centre-back might lessen with the anticipated return of Sven Botman, who is currently sidelined due to a knee injury. Howe has indicated that Botman could potentially return to action by late December. If this timeline holds true, the immediate need for a centre-back may not be as critical as once thought. The Approach to January Signings While Newcastle is committed to prioritizing the signing of a winger in January, it does not guarantee that they will make a purchase. The club’s approach will be measured; they will only bring in a player if they find the right fit at the right price. There will be no rush decisions or panic buys as they navigate the upcoming transfer window. In conclusion, as Newcastle United prepares for January, the focus will likely be on strengthening the attacking front with a winger while remaining open to potential defensive reinforcements if the circumstances allow. The club is poised to make calculated moves that align with their long-term strategy, ensuring that they continue to build a competitive squad capable of achieving their ambitions.

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