Newcastle United 'best positioned' for transfer as £52m claim made

Eddie Howe and Newcastle United have a crucial January transfer window ahead of them. A busy schedule and countless injuries have had an effect on the team's overall performance this season - they'll be looking to plug the gaps when the window opens on January 1.

The Toon are believed to be interested in a centre-forward who has played for Bayern Munich in the past - they're also chasing a Portuguese defender who has previously been the subject of Liverpool and Manchester United's desire.

Newcastle interested in deal for Joshua Zirkzee

Joshua Zirkzee was once touted as one of the world's most exciting wonderkids, but has yet to live up to this billing - however, he could be given a chance to do so at Newcastle, who are considering a move for the player.

This is according to a report from Milan Web - if the Toon want to bring Zirkzee to St., James' Park, they will need to fend off competition from AC Milan. The 22-year-old is currently having a decent season in Serie A for Atalanta - he has notched up seven goals and two assists across 16 league games so far.

Toon 'in position' to sign Goncalo Inacio

Newcastle are thought to be the 'best positioned' club to sign Sporting CP defender Goncalo Inacio as things stand, according to a report from Record. He won't be a cheap signing - he has a minimum fee release clause in his contract of just under £52 million.

Moreover, Newcastle aren't the only team in the race to secure his signature. He is also a target of Manchester United, Liverpool and Real Madrid - despite this, Record's report still mentions that Newcastle are leading their competition currently. Sporting are unwilling to let him go mid-season - but if his release clause is activated, they will have no choice.