Expectations inside Newcastle United are being deliberately kept in check ahead of the January transfer window.
According to Chris Waugh of The Athletic, there is no strong indication that significant business is imminent in Newcastle, with the club taking a reactive approach to the transfer market.
Waugh reported that the internal messaging is that Newcastle are “unlikely to be particularly busy in January,” even after recent performances.
According to Waugh, the club’s approach is to remain “opportunistic”
and to act only if players already identified as potential summer targets become available earlier than expected.
Ideally, however, Newcastle would like to strengthen in specific areas. Waugh reported that the club would prefer “at least one full-back and a creative midfielder,” while noting that a young striker could be added only if Will Osula departs, as could very well be the case after a failed transfer at the last second during the summer window. Even then, Waugh adds that “it would be a surprise at this stage if Newcastle made more than one or two additions.”
Waugh also cautions that some of the messaging may be about expectation management. The insider believes it makes sense for the club to “downplay prospective business, rather than hype it up,” particularly if they are attempting to work on quieter deals.
One player Newcastle openly admire is AZ midfielder Kees Smit, but Waugh notes there is an acceptance within the club that there will be “stiff competition” for the youngster, and that the Magpies simply aren’t the favorites to land the wonderkid, either now or later.
Regarding injury-related fixes via transfers, Waugh reported that the club’s strategy “will not be dictated by short-term problems,” and thus none of the players currently sidelined and their issues should influence the Magpies’ plans.
“Significant squad surgery will not happen next month,” Waugh ultimately stated. One or two signings are possible, as well as exits, with Joe Willock, Osula, Kieran Trippier and Harrison Ashby among those with uncertain futures, but Waugh noted that it remains more likely than not that no senior additions or sales are made at all.
