Newcastle transfer strategy revealed with huge bottom-four clash target for new arrivals’ debuts

After all of the excitement surrounding Newcastle United’s £300 million takeover by the Saudi Arabian Public Investment Fund, the time has now come for Eddie Howe and his staff to complete deals and ensure the club’s top flight status.

The start of the January transfer window has once again fuelled speculation around big names that could potentially be on their way to St. James’ Park, while it has been reported that the Magpies will target lower-profile players this month in a bid to avoid relegation, before targeting marquee signings in the summer.

Now, the club’s strategy for this month has been revealed, with Howe reportedly chasing six mid-season signings, according to The I.

The report states that the club will target six players this month, with wing-back Kieran Trippier their priority.

It also suggests that Howe hopes to have both Trippier and one other new face in his squad ahead of the visit of Watford in mid-January.

Howe is hoping to make Trippier his first signing as Newcastle boss

The Hornets travel north on the 15th for a game that could prove pivotal in the race to avoid relegation this season, with both clubs currently sitting in the bottom four.

Newcastle sit 19th at present with Watford two places above them, although Burnley, who occupy the place between the two, have two games in hand over Newcastle and one over the Hornets.

It is also suggested that, while a deal for the Atletico Madrid defender is not yet complete, the English side are hopeful that an agreement can be reached and, if a fee can be agreed, a deal could be completed by next week.

The issue currently preventing a deal from being completed is believed to be related to a release clause that the England international is keen to have included in his contract.

Newcastle are also set to make use of the loan market this month, with short six-month loan deals representing value for money and also potentially providing a short-term solution to some of the club’s problem areas.