Newcastle United are set to focus their attention on bringing in a left-back during the January transfer window amid Paul Dummett’s injury woes, with Jetro Willems having been linked with a potential return
The Magpies could be facing a vital winter window to ensure they have enough depth in vital positions to maintain their Premier League status. Callum Wilson’s recent hamstring issues have highlighted the potential need for attacking reinforcements, while Steve Bruce is reportedly keen to add to his midfield options.
However, Newcastle are planning on making a new left-sided defender their priory in January, with Dummett’s spell out of action set to be extended following his latest setback. That leaves them with only Jamal Lewis at left-back and Newcastle are preparing to ensure that position is strengthened, per The Sun (22 November, p61).
Bruce’s side have already been credited with an interest in re-signing last season’s loanee Willems, with the 22-cap Netherlands international likely to leave Eintracht Frankfurt in a potential cut-price deal as his contract expires in the summer. The defender is believed to favour a return to St James’ Park.
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Newcastle do need to ensure that they bring in cover at left-back in January, especially considering the amount of game-time that Lewis will need to get through now between now and the start of the New Year. This season is on track to see the most muscle injuries experienced in a single campaign and the Magpies have already seen their squad affected by injuries this term.
Bruce will likely want to ensure that any new defender brought into the club will be able to come in and do a reliable job in the Premier League. That is why a return for Willems makes perfect sense for the Magpies, with the Dutchman having impressed during the first half of last season and become something of a fans’ favourite.
However, Newcastle must also ensure that they do not neglect the other areas of their squad which are clearly in need of being strengthened in January. That could well prove to be vital in their hopes of keeping themselves well clear of the relegation zone.
