Eddie Howe could soon land his number one transfer target, if today's Newcastle transfer news is to be believed.
We know that this January transfer window is one like no other. Usually, the mid-season transfer window is a time to tighten any loose bolts in the team, with only a couple of signings expected each season. But this time around, the Newcastle board and Eddie Howe need to think hard about the signings they wish to make as there are plenty of holes in the squad caused by the ongoing injury crisis at St James' Park.
Newcastle transfer news: Eddie Howe handed a HUGE transfer boost for key Man City man
According to an exclusive report by NUFC Blog, it's now become a case of "when, not if" Newcastle sign Kalvin Phillips from Man City, with all parties pushing for the move to occur in January. It is expected to be a loan move, with no expectation to buy, which benefits Newcastle since Phillips would act as a short-term Sandro Tonali replacement.
Who knows? If Phillips comes to the club and impresses, which is certainly his aim as he wants to get into the EURO 2024 squad, then it won't take much to persuade Man City to sell the England international. After all, he is surplus to requirements given the star-studded midfield which Pep Guardiola boasts at the Etihad Stadium.
For now, Newcastle are focusing on their important Champions League game. They play AC Milan in the final group stage match on Wednesday evening and they must pick up a win to stand a chance of qualifying. Hopefully then, the result of the other match in their group will go their way, as they hope to scrape through to the knockout stage by the edge of their teeth.
What do you make of today's Newcastle transfer news?