Newcastle set for huge spending spree in first transfer window of Saudi-era

As we approach the halfway point of the Premier League season, Newcastle United’s position looks increasingly precarious.

Despite the club’s £300 million takeover backed by the Saudi Arabian Public Investment Fund and the appointment of Eddie Howe as manager, the Magpies are still second bottom, three points from safety, having won just one game all season.

While fans have been dreaming of big money transfers next summer, the club’s immediate priority will be on ensuring their top flight status for another year.

With 20 games left to save their season, it appears that Newcastle are now plotting a spending spree in the January window, with as many as six players potentially arriving at St. James’ Park.

As per 90min, Howe is targeting as many as six signings next month, including two loan signings from fellow Premier League clubs.

Chelsea duo Ross Barkley and Ruben Loftus-Cheek are on Newcastle’s wishlist

The report states that the club have looked at several players, including Chelsea duo Ross Barkley and Ruben Loftus-Cheek, as well as Manchester United quintet Anthony Martial, Phil Jones, Nemanja Matic, Donny van de Beek and Jesse Lingard.

The club have also reportedly considered moves for Manuel Lanzini, Dele Alli, Divock Origi and Nathan Ake.

While permanent signings would be preferred, Newcastle currently have two spaces available in their squad for domestic loan signings.

Under current rules, top flight clubs can only have players on loan from domestic rivals each season, however the Magpies currently have none, meaning that two Premier League stars could arrive on loan in January.

Stabilising the club’s leaky defence will be a priority for Howe in January, with his side having conceded more goals than any other side so far this season.

The likes of James Tarkowski and Malang Sarr have been linked to the club in recent weeks, but 90min report that Kieran Trippier is still top of their list, and that they are even prepared to offer the Atletico Madrid man a club-record pay packet to return to England.