Newcastle United January Transfer Window 2024: Targets, Potential Signings, Need and Outgoing

Newcastle United are grappling with a growing list of injuries and the extended suspension of Sandro Tonali, making their squad appear increasingly thin in recent weeks. The upcoming January transfer window presents an opportunity for Newcastle United to address these challenges and reinforce their team.

Despite a season marked by unpredictability, the club has found consistency in its formidable home form, securing eight wins in nine matches with six clean sheets in seven. However, Nottingham Forest recently exposed vulnerabilities in what was once deemed an impregnable Fortress St James’ Park, leaving uncertainty about the team’s future performances.

As the club navigates this challenging phase, manager Eddie Howe anticipates further difficulties in the upcoming transfer market. To proactively address potential gaps in the squad, Newcastle’s scouting team has already initiated preparations for the January transfer window in early 2024.

Reflecting on the previous window, Howe successfully acquired the players he desired, including Tino Livramento and Lewis Hall, albeit after prolonged negotiations. With injuries and uncertainties looming, Newcastle United aims to bolster its squad during the upcoming transfer window to navigate the demanding phase ahead.

Transfer rumours that might come true in January for Newcastle United

Newcastle United have demonstrated exceptional prowess in the transfer market since the club’s takeover in 2021, achieving remarkable success with more hits than misses. Notable acquisitions such as Kieran Trippier, Sven Botman, Dan Burn, Bruno Guimaraes, and Anthony Gordon have significantly contributed to the team’s positive outcomes.

While perfection remains elusive, the overall performance in the transfer market has been commendable. Thus, the upcoming January transfer window becomes crucial for sustaining their success. Eddie Howe, the team’s manager, faces the task of building on their recent triumphs.

To further strengthen the squad and ensure continued success, there are specific areas of business that Eddie Howe should focus on in the January transfer window. If he successfully addresses these priorities, the outcome could be described as nothing less than a dream month for Newcastle United.

Kalvin Phillips

Newcastle United are reportedly prioritizing a loan move for Kalvin Phillips in the upcoming January transfer window, according to The Times. The club’s interest in the English international has gained credibility from various reputable sources, including insights from David Ornstein on The Athletic Football Podcast.

The primary objective for Newcastle appears to be strengthening the midfield position, especially in light of the absence of Sandro Tonali. Whether the reinforcement comes in the form of a temporary or permanent addition, the focus is on enhancing the group of players in that crucial area.

Kalvin Phillips, currently with Manchester City, seems to be a viable option for Newcastle. Despite being part of the City squad, Phillips has struggled to secure playing time under manager Pep Guardiola, making only one start in the League Cup defeat to Newcastle this season. The indication is that Guardiola may be open to letting Phillips leave in January, potentially paving the way for the midfielder to seek regular playing time elsewhere, especially with an eye on securing a spot in Gareth Southgate’s England squad for Euro 2024 next summer.

Hugo Ekitike

According to The Times report, Hugo Ekitike is identified as another top target for Newcastle United in the upcoming winter transfer window. The French striker was previously pursued by Newcastle when he was with Reims, but he eventually made a move to PSG. Despite his transfer to the French giants, Ekitike has seen a decrease in his playing time, having played only nine minutes of Ligue 1 football this season due to increased competition following PSG’s summer signings.

However, recent reports from TEAMtalk suggest that Newcastle may cool their interest in Ekitike and redirect their focus toward other potential targets. The shifting landscape of transfer priorities indicates the dynamic nature of the club’s pursuit of reinforcements in the upcoming transfer window.

Serhou Guirassy

Serhou Guirassy has emerged as one of the standout performers of the season, showcasing prolific form for Stuttgart. The Guinea international has notably netted an impressive 15 goals in just 10 Bundesliga appearances, putting him among the top goal-scorers across Europe’s major leagues, with only Harry Kane surpassing his tally.

Reports suggest that Guirassy’s current contract with Stuttgart includes a release clause valued at just €17.5 million. This potential bargain opportunity has captured the attention of clubs seeking attacking reinforcements, and Newcastle appears to be keen on securing the services of the in-form striker. According to Italian journalist Rudy Galetti, Guirassy is considered one of the preferred options to strengthen Newcastle’s attack, indicating a genuine interest in the player. As the transfer window approaches, the evolving situation suggests that there might be developments in Newcastle’s pursuit of Serhou Guirassy, making it a space worth monitoring.

Jean-Clair Todibo

Newcastle are reportedly contemplating a move for Jean-Clair Todibo, as per Fichajes. The defender has been in outstanding form, contributing significantly to the impressive defensive record of Ligue 1’s top team, registering eight successive clean sheets.

However, a potential obstacle in securing Todibo’s services could be the impending involvement of Sir Jim Ratcliffe at Manchester United. Ratcliffe, who owns Nice, may have reservations about allowing one of his star assets to join a top-four rival of the Red Devils. Interestingly, Manchester United itself has been increasingly linked with Todibo, raising questions about the dynamics of moving players between clubs under shared ownership. The evolving situation suggests that Todibo’s transfer could be influenced by various factors, including ownership considerations and potential interest from other clubs.

Players who could leave Newcastle United in January transfer window

According to recent reports and ongoing speculation, three notable players could potentially depart from Newcastle United during the upcoming January transfer window. The mentioned individuals are Matt Ritchie, Paul Dummett, and Lewis Miley.

Matt Ritchie

In a rather straightforward manner, it’s clear that Matt Ritchie’s future at St. James’ Park is limited. At 34 years old and without making a single appearance this season, holding on to the winger, who earns £45,000 a week, appears impractical. Given that his contract expires in the summer, it might be challenging to secure a substantial transfer fee for Ritchie.

With limited interest likely due to his contract situation, Newcastle may find it beneficial to part ways with Ritchie in January, even if the transfer proceeds are minimal. The prospect of a lengthy Champions League run makes squad depth crucial, and Ritchie’s current form may not meet the required standards. A strategic move would involve offloading him promptly and securing a replacement who can contribute more effectively on the wing when called upon.

Paul Dummett

The decision to sell Paul Dummett might be a painful one for loyal Newcastle fans, considering his long-standing connection with the club. However, a pragmatic evaluation of Dummett’s recent performance suggests that he has played just three Premier League games in the last three years. Given this limited involvement, it appears that Dummett may not contribute significantly to Newcastle’s ambitions in elite competitions.

Regrettably, it seems Dummett might not meet the required standard for Newcastle’s aspirations, prompting the need for both parties to part ways. A potential sale would not only remove his figure from the club but also free up additional wages, allowing Newcastle to pursue players in positions where reinforcements are needed. For Dummett, this could provide an opportunity to finish his career by playing regular football elsewhere, and for the Magpies, it represents a strategic move to optimize their squad for future challenges.

Lewis Miley (On Loan)

Recognized with the Jack Hixon Award for being Newcastle’s most promising young player, 17-year-old Lewis Miley is viewed as a long-term prospect for St. James’ Park. While a sale is out of the question at this stage, given his limited first-team opportunities this season, a loan move in January seems like a sensible choice for the talented youngster.

Sending Miley on loan to a team where he can thrive and secure regular playing time could significantly contribute to his development. Gaining real experience in senior football is crucial for a young player’s growth, and a well-structured loan spell can be transformative. The potential benefits for Miley’s career are substantial, as he would return to Newcastle as a more seasoned and stronger player.

Opting for a loan move until the end of the season in January presents a low-risk opportunity for both the player and the club. It allows Miley to continue his development in a competitive environment while ensuring he remains part of Newcastle’s long-term plans.