'My intention' - Eddie Howe makes worrying Newcastle United transfer claim

Eddie Howe admits he would like a new signing by the time Newcastle United are next in action but has no guarantees over whether that will happen.

Saturday's late defeat to Premier League champions Manchester City was the tale of two benches as substitutes Kevin de Bruyne and Oscar Bobb saw the visitors come from 2-1 down to win 3-2 in the remaining quarter of an hour.

By contrast, Newcastle - without 11 senior players - were forced to name a bench consisting of two goalkeepers, two youngsters and four defenders with Matt Ritchie, who hasn't started a Premier League match since December 2021, the only recognised attacking option.

Only Tino Livramento, Jacob Murphy and Callum Wilson are due back after the short break, which further emphasises the need for reinforcements. But as outlined by Magpies' CEO Darren Eales in midweek, United are restricted by Premier League Profit and Sustainability rules.

As a result, Howe is unsure what the next fortnight will bring.

“I don't know, is the honest answer," said Howe when asked if he expects to have anyone in by the next game. "I've got no idea as we sit here now. Obviously it would be my intention to try, but let's wait and see."

Newcastle next face Fulham in the FA Cup fourth round on January 30 before travelling to Aston Villa in the Premier League three days later as they look to end a run of four consecutive defeats.

England international Kalvin Phillips, who was an unused substitute at St James' Park on Saturday, remains a target.