According to reports, Newcastle United will bring in a midfield player on loan in January to make up for Sandro Tonali’s football ban.
After an inquiry by the Italian football authorities into illicit betting on sports, Tonali was given a ten-month ban.
FIFA has since confirmed the Italy international’s suspension, despite Eddie Howe’s previous suggestion that he would be fit for Saturday’s Newcastle match against Wolves.
In order to cover for Tonali, the manager is eager to add a new midfield player in January. Football Insider reports that Newcastle would prefer to recruit a player on loan until the end of the season in order to avoid having to pay a high price for a long-term replacement.
Amadou Onana, a center midfielder for Everton, and Scott McTominay of Manchester United have both lately been connected to a high-profile transfer to St James’ Park. However, it appears that neither of those choices are available anymore.
Although the Magpies have players like Joelinton, Joe Willock, Elliot Anderson, Bruno Guimaraes, and Sean Longstaff to cover for Tonali in the interim, it’s obvious that Howe is eager to bring in a temporary midfield addition.
Newcastle identify two key midfield targets
Newcastle has identified two players that they may bring in on loan in January as possible reinforcements.
Kalvin Phillips, a star for Manchester City, is one of such players. Representatives for Phillips and the Magpies have already discussed switching to the North East club, as TEAMtalk recently disclosed.
The England international is believed to want more playing time before the 2024 Euros, hence Man City is willing to send him out on loan until the end of the current campaign.
Howe is a big fan of Phillips, so it’s probable that Newcastle will pursue him seriously in January.
Ruben Neves, the star of Al Hilal, is another possible loan option. During the summer transfer window, the Portugal international left Wolves for the Saudi club.
The Saudi Public Investment Fund, which also owns Newcastle, supports Al Hilal, which may facilitate the thrashing out of a deal.
Neves has a wealth of Premier League experience. After six years at Molineux, he captained Wolves in his last campaign there.
Neves has previously stated that participating in the Champions League is one of his “main goals” for his career. If Newcastle and Al Hilal can reach an agreement, Neves would probably be receptive to coming.
In light of this, Newcastle supporters should undoubtedly keep a watch on Phillips and Neves for the upcoming few months.
