Newcastle United transfer window: Can players signed on January 1 play against Southampton?

The January transfer window is less than 48 hours away from opening - with Newcastle United fans eager to see new signings arrive at the earliest opportunity.

This is perhaps the most anticipated winter market in the club’s long history with hope that the new Saudi Arabian owners can flex their financial muscle to prevent relegation to the Championship.

Head coach Eddie Howe has not hidden his desire to strengthen his playing squad, which currently sits 19th in the Premier League table, but does not want to make any promises.

Why? Because January is such a difficult market for a number of reasons, not least inflating price-tags and the changing of minds from opposition clubs, players and agents.

Can players signed by Newcastle United on January 1 play against Southampton?

Howe & Co know they will have to be agile and patient. Indeed, patience is key, even if new signings are a pressing manner in the eyes of many, including fans.

But theoretically speaking, if the Magpies did indeed finalise a new signing on January 1, when would they be eligible to make their debut?

That question came to our attention and to be honest, we didn’t know the answer either, so we asked the question to those that did.

The answer? No new players registered between 1-3 January are eligible to play in Premier League matches in Matchweek 21, which covers United’s away trip to Southampton.

Indeed, the long trip to the south coast may not go ahead as planned after Newcastle’s recent Covid-19 break and injury crisis.

Either way, any new player signed during the opening three days of January would first be available to face Cambridge United in the FA Cup, then Watford in the Premier League on January 15 - both at St James’ Park.

As already reported, NewcastleWorld understands Newcastle are working on a deal to sign England full-back Kieran Trippier from Atletico Madrid.