Newcastle United is having a difficult January transfer window, despite the fact that they definitely need reinforcements.
The Premier League’s profit and sustainability regulations appear to be severely impeding Newcastle, prompting rumors that a key player such as Bruno Guimaraes may need to be moved.
It arrives at a time when Newcastle’s season is in doubt. Eddie Howe’s team has had a difficult winter, falling down the league table and being knocked out of the Champions League and Carabao Cup.
While there hasn’t been much transfer movement at St James’ Park this month, there has been plenty for fans to debate.
Geordie Boot Boys met exclusively with HITC Football transfer insider Graeme Bailey to get the dirt on what is and isn’t happening at Newcastle.
Kalvin Phillips to Newcastle is a game of brinkmanship.
Newcastle have been extensively connected with signing Kalvin Phillips on loan from Manchester City, and we questioned where the situation stands now.
“From what I gather, it’s all a big game of brinkmanship. Newcastle likes him. The player wants to come. Earlier in the game, City dominated Newcastle. They understand how much Newcastle wants him. He’s the ideal candidate to come in since he’s from the north and a player Eddie Howe previously admired. It is not a speculative wager. It’s going to be the last week.
“I understand they are wanting £5 million, with the majority of his pay covered. City didn’t think it would be a huge concern for Newcastle since they viewed Phillips as a long-term signing.
“The player isn’t massively agitating, but from what I’m told Newcastle would be his preference.”I don’t believe they regard him as a long-term signing. I believe they see him as a possible long-term signing, but they do not want to commit additional funds. They have already committed £28 million to Lewis Hall. Getting Phillips would cost at least another £40 million. That’s approximately £70 million off your summer budget.
“The player isn’t agitating for the move, which is understandable, and I believe that’s one of the things Newcastle likes about Phillips.” He’s an Eddie Howe-type player. He’s a really professional player. He’s a great guy. He would fit in any dressing room, not just Newcastle’s. But I believe he would fit in extremely well at Newcastle, which is something Newcastle values about Kalvin Phillips. He’s not a troublemaker, and he won’t disturb the calm.
“I think if Newcastle let this slip through their fingers it will be a huge mistake.”
Newcastle evaluate Atalanta star Ederson.
We inquired about suggestions that Newcastle were considering Atalanta midfielder Ederson as a possible midfield option.
“He’s a player they’ve seen before. He’s a guy they value, but his agent is definitely pushing him out.
“Atalanta is not in the mood to let him go just now. If Newcastle wanted Ederson right now, they’d have to pay more for him. Newcastle would have to overbid for him, something we know they won’t do.
The Magpies desire an attacking midfielder in the future.
Newcastle are reportedly looking to acquire an attacking midfielder in the near future, having looked at James Maddison last summer.
“They would like to sign a number 10 at some point in the future.” They don’t have someone like Lucas Paqueta who can break down a defence.
“I believe they are considering it for the future, but there is still some work to be done with this squad.” There are a lot of hangers-on.
“Obviously they chose Tonali over someone like Maddison.” Newcastle were interested in Maddison, but Tonali was their top priority. It wasn’t their primary priority to sign an offensive midfielder.”
Bruno Guimaraes’ Future
We inquired about Bruno Guimaraes’ potential departure from the club, given rumours surrounding his future on Tyneside.
“I don’t doubt that he is devoted to Newcastle, but that commitment must be reciprocated. He joined Newcastle when the club was in the relegation zone and helped them reach the Champions League.
“If Bruno does search for a change, I don’t believe it’s out of loyalty; it’s simply thinking about his career. He understands that he is regarded as one of the Premier League’s best midfielders.
“It’s a huge six months ahead for Newcastle on the field, and that will determine what happens off it.”
PIF loophole exists for Newcastle.
We inquired about Newcastle potentially signing players from the Saudi Pro League after Premier League clubs voted in favor of it during speculation that Ruben Neves could move to the North East.
“That market is open for Newcastle. PIF is more than glad for them to pursue that path. It’s complicated in the Premier League, but if I were Newcastle, I’d bring in players from the Saudi Pro League. I think Newcastle is being overly polite about it.”
Newcastle could make multiple January signings.
We inquired about the possibility of Newcastle signing more than one player during the January transfer window.
“I’m told there may be some leeway for Newcastle to do something, but what do they require? It depends on what’s available. I doubt they’ll spend £30-40 million on someone. I do not think that person is available.
“I think there will be one signing, but I wouldn’t be flabbergasted if they suddenly found money under the doormat – here’s another £30million – and something came up.”
