Newcastle United set to confirm deadline day deal as approach made for £27M pair

As the final hours of the January transfer window tick away, Newcastle United remains in a cautious yet strategic position. While major first-team signings have not materialized, the club has been active in refining its squad, focusing on youth development and carefully managing financial constraints.

The majority of Newcastle’s outgoing transfers this window have involved young players securing loan moves to gain experience. Alex Murphy joined Bolton Wanderers, Charlie McArthur linked up with Carlisle United, and Travis Hernes moved to Danish club Aalborg BK for the remainder of the season.

Jamie Miley’s loan spell at Newport County was cut short, leading to a permanent transfer to Hartlepool United. With his contract expiring in the summer, the 21-year-old had been training with Pools before securing his long-term future.

In terms of senior departures, Isaac Hayden continues his loan spell at Portsmouth, while one of the most emotional exits came last week with Miguel Almiron’s move back to Atlanta United.

The Paraguayan, who arrived at St James’ Park six years ago for a then-record £21 million, saw his role diminish under Eddie Howe, prompting his return to Major League Soccer in a deal worth around £10 million.

Further departures could still be on the horizon, with Lloyd Kelly finalizing his transfer to Juventus. After undergoing a medical in Turin, the defender will join the Serie A giants on an initial loan, with a £20 million obligation to buy in the summer.

Despite joining Newcastle on a free transfer from Bournemouth just months ago, limited opportunities saw him make only four Premier League starts, with his last appearance coming in November. The offer proved too good for the Magpies to refuse.

Other players have attracted interest, but immediate exits seem unlikely. Kieran Trippier remains a crucial squad member, even as Galatasaray made inquiries about his availability.

The experienced right-back will continue competing with Tino Livramento for a starting role. Meanwhile, Watford expressed interest in Matt Targett, but Kelly’s departure leaves Newcastle short at left-back, making it unlikely that Targett will be allowed to leave.

Odysseas Vlachodimos also opted to stay, despite an approach from Saudi Pro League side Al Shabab. The third-choice goalkeeper prefers to remain in Europe, ensuring Newcastle retains depth in their goalkeeping department.

While first-team signings have been absent this window, Newcastle has been busy securing high-potential talent. Georgian forward Vakhtang Salia visited Newcastle’s training ground and St James’ Park at the start of January ahead of his official move from Dinamo Tbilisi when he turns 18 in August.

A loan to a European club seems the likely next step for his development. Similarly, Newcastle is close to finalizing a deal for Turkish attacking midfielder Baran Yildiz, with the 18-year-old reportedly agreeing to a long-term contract.

Additionally, Republic of Ireland prospect Kyle Fitzgerald has joined from Galway United, further strengthening the club’s commitment to youth development.

Despite these additions, no senior incomings have been secured. The exits of Almiron and Kelly weaken the squad in the short term, particularly as Newcastle fights for European qualification.

However, the club appears to be taking a calculated risk, prioritizing financial stability over immediate reinforcements. The belief is that by avoiding unnecessary spending in January, Newcastle will be in a stronger financial position to invest in the summer transfer window.

Last summer, the club had to sell Elliot Anderson and Yankuba Minteh to comply with the Premier League’s Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR) and avoid potential sanctions.

Newcastle’s current strategy aims to prevent a repeat scenario, ensuring they are never forced into selling key players such as Alexander Isak, Bruno Guimarães, Anthony Gordon, or rising academy star Lewis Miley.

The frustration among supporters is understandable, given the desire to strengthen the squad midseason. However, Newcastle’s leadership seems determined to build a sustainable future while avoiding rash financial decisions that could jeopardize long-term ambitions.

The proof of this approach will only be seen in the summer when Newcastle hopes to be in a position to make the necessary additions to compete at the highest level.