Newcastle United are planning to be active in the January transfer window, with a clear focus on succession planning rather than a major mid-season spending spree, according to Daily Mail reporter Craig Hope.
Hope reports that Newcastle’s recruitment discussions are currently centred on strengthening in midfield, centre-back and full-back positions, with an emphasis on reducing the squad’s average age.
The club’s focus is on young European players with what is described internally as “high ceilings” and long-term development potential, rather than established, high-cost signings.
Among the midfielders being monitored are:
- AZ Alkmaar’s Kees Smit, 19
- Auxerre’s Kevin Danois, 21
- Feyenoord’s Luciano Valente, 22
- Monaco’s Lamine Camara, 21
In defence, there is only one targeted player:
- Toulouse’s Dayann Methalie, 19
Newcastle committed more than £250million during the summer window, and any January additions would only be pursued if the deal represents value and aligns with the club’s longer-term squad plan.
Sporting director Ross Wilson and the recruitment team are working ahead of the January 1 opening to ensure they are positioned to act quickly if opportunities arise.
Squad size is also a factor in Newcastle’s thinking, with Hope reporting that outgoings are in the works so the Magpies can bring someone in to make up for the exits.
