Eddie Howe delivers ‘confident’ Newcastle United transfer claim as Magpies eye new signings in time for Watford

Eddie Howe is confident new signings will follow Kieran Trippier to Newcastle United, some of which he hopes arrive before the Watford game next Saturday.

The Magpies kickstarted their January transfer business by officially landing England and La Liga title-winning full-back Trippier on Friday morning.

It spells an exciting start to the winter window, and the expectation is that more new players will come through the door at St James’ Park before the month is over.

NewcastleWorld understands Howe & Co have turned their attention towards acquiring a central defender and a striker, the latter forced due to concerns over Callum Wilson’s fitness.

Indeed, Lille’s Netherlands under-21s Sven Botman is a player high on the club’s wishlist.

It is understood an improved bid has been launched as United look to test the French outfit’s resolve. Their initial stance is Botman was not for sale.

While Howe reiterated that January is a difficult market to deal in, the arrival of Trippier has made him confident that others will arrive too, preferably before the big Premier League relegation six-pointer with Watford next weekend.

“Kieran hasn’t come for the financial benefits,” Howe insisted. “He’s come for the club and the challenge that the team faces at this current time and the longer-term vision.

“That’s a massive thing for the football club. Hopefully, with his signing, other players around the world will potentially look at that and share his dream and vision.”

What positions is Eddie Howe targeting?

Howe added: “We’re looking in all positions because that’s our role and that’s what we have to do to benefit the club.

“If there is a player out there that can strengthen us and give us a better chance of staying in the division, we’ll look at it. There is a lot of work going on, trust me.

“The length of time to watch players, analyse players and make a decision takes a long time, not just from the scouting department but the coaches as well.

“We’ll try and make the right decisions for the long-term and short-term.”

Intention to sign players before Watford

Three points against the Hornets could see United exit the relegation zone. So, is it the club’s intention to sign more players in time for then?

“Yes,” Howe told NewcastleWorld. “But the reality is at this time, with eight days to go before that game, I don’t know, is the honest answer.

“I’d say at this moment I am (confident of signing more players) but we’re in the hands of clubs, agents and players wanting to come. There are no guarantees.

“It might sound simple from the outside but it’s very, very different when you’re on the inside.

“I’m confident, but there are no promises.”