A report from the Chronicle Live has linked Newcastle United with a January move for four English-based stars, three of whom currently ply their trade in the Premier League.
After securing the services of Callum Wilson and Jamal Lewis in the summer, as well as acquiring Ryan Fraser and Jeff Hendrick on free transfers, many were left satisfied with the business.
However, with the January window already on the horizon, the transfer rumour mill is gearing to kick into gear and the Magpies are at the forefront.
The report links Steve Bruce with a move for Premier League trio, Everton’s Tom Davies, Manchester United’s Phil Jones and Rob Holding from Arsenal.
Also linked is an attempt for wantaway Bournemouth striker Joshua King, who has been a target for numerous top-flight clubs since the Cherries’ relegation, and could well link back up with current Toon top goalscorer Wilson.
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Davies was a reported target for the club in the summer, with the Evertonian now experiencing reduced involvement at Goodison Park following their own summer transfer business, its a signing which doesn’t automatically improve the Newcastle starting XI.
Bruce’s squad already boasts a plethora of midfield options, all of whom are capable performers on their day and Davies doesn’t offer much more outside of the current crop.
The two defensive names linked are of much more interest as both Jones and Holding would provide depth to the options as well as a much-needed versatility with both players capable of stepping into defensive-minded midfield positions.
Jones may well be the most attainable of the pair as the 28-year-old has yet to make a Premier League outing this term as he continues his recovery from injury, whilst Holding has played three times in the league for the Gunners.
Finally, the frontman, King may take some fighting off of competition in order to land the 48 Premier League goal striker, although the deal perhaps represents the most important one for the Tyneside club to pull off, despite Wilson’s early success.
A former teammate of Wilson, King would provide Bruce with the ammunition to go two up front more regularly and continue to use Joelinton in a wide position.
With Andy Carroll’s involvement becoming increasingly fleeting and the future of Dwight Gayle an unknown, a forward reinforcement, particularly one of King’s ilk, availability and affordability may well be top of Bruce’s post-Christmas list.
