Alan Shearer issues ‘real spark’ verdict as Newcastle United tipped to ‘target’ defender transfer

Newcastle United are now preparing for Carabao Cup action after their more than comfortable win on Sunday.

The Magpies scored eight times to thrash Sheffield United, backing up a strong performance against AC Milan in the Champions League earlier in the week. But there is no rest for Eddie Howe and his men, who are back in action as soon as Wednesday night when they take on Manchester City in an interesting-looking Carabao Cup clash.

In the meantime, we have rounded up all the latest news and transfer rumours surrounding St James’ Park.

Shearer praise

Alan Shearer has praised Newcastle boss Howe and winger Anthony Gordon after Sunday’s win in the Steel City.

Speaking about Gordon’s performance, Shearer told Premier League Productions: “He provided a real spark when he came on and got on the scoresheet with a fantastic finish.” Speaking about Howe, Shearer added: “What can you say! Masterminded a historic victory at Bramall Lane.”

The Magpies are now up to eighth place after their comfortable win, and they are within five points of the top four at this early stage.

Transfer prediction

Transfer insider Ben Jacobs has been speaking about what Newcastle could do in the January window.

“If they’re going to target someone it’s probably going to be another centre-back,” he told CaughtOffside.

“They could do with cover for Sven Botman. Extending Bruno Guimaraes’ contract is naturally important. Could they also look for more goals? That could be a consideration in the summer. But it’s important to understand that Newcastle can’t break the bank because of Financial Fair Play. Just because they got into Europe once they can’t necessarily just change their model.

“Now that they have Champions League football, players will want higher wages, but Newcastle have done well to ensure they don’t have one stand-out earner. They have to be conservative, and that’s why I also sense they’ll be in for a quieter January.”