Have any players asked to LEAVE Newcastle United in January? This is what Eddie Howe said

Eddie Howe does not want any of his players to think about leaving Newcastle United during the January transfer window.

There has been a lot of noise surrounding potential arrivals, though the departure of players could be as equally important.

Howe can only name a 25-man Premier League squad, meaning some players will either be left out or offloaded altogether if new signings are secured next month.

In the summer, former boss Steve Bruce struggled to sell United’s fringe stars, which he hinted as a key reason for Joe Willock being the only summer signing.

Howe previously admitted there would need to be a “balancing act” but called for his players to prove they deserve a future at St James’ Park.

And speaking ahead of Manchester United’s visit to Tyneside, Howe’s stance remained the same when asked if any players had requested to leave the club.

What did Eddie Howe say about players leaving in January?

Howe said: "I’ve had none of those conversations with my players and I wouldn’t encourage them either.

“We need everyone that’s here focused on the fight to stay in the league. Simple as that.

“I wouldn’t encourage anyone to look anywhere else. We have a small squad.

“We have a few injuries within the squad as well so everyone should be focused on getting in the team."

Who could be on the move in January?

Newcastle currently have four senior goalkeepers on their books - Martin Dubravka, Karl Darlow, Freddie Woodman and Mark Gillespie.

Despite starting the campaign as the club’s number one, Woodman has swiftly dropped back to third choice following Dubravka and Darlow’s respective returns.

Woodman was very close to joining Championship side Bournemouth on loan in the summer. Could a half-season loan move suit the 24-year-old? Or even a sale?

Meanwhile, Jeff Hendrick, Dwight Gayle and Sean Longstaff have all struggled for gametime under Howe, as did the former two under the previous boss Bruce.