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It’s six words everyone associated with Newcastle are sick of hearing but Premier League Profitability and Sustainability Rules (PSR) continue to restrict the club’s spending.
What will likely be key to anyone arriving next month is player sales. Miguel Almiron and Martin Dubravka are the latest players to be linked with exits but there is no certainty over what will happen.
“I think everything has got to align,” Howe said when asked what will need to happen in January to secure a new signing. “I think there has got to be a lot of things that come together for us to do that.
“As I've said many times, it's not through a lack of desire or want from me or anyone connected with the club to do that but it's got to be right, not just for the here and now but for the future as well.
“We've got to be responsible to make sure any decision we make doesn't affect us in future windows as well.”
Right, that’s the reality but if Christmas isn’t a time to have a little bit of fun then when is it?! Here’s how a new-look Newcastle United starting XI could look - based on recent rumours:
9. CM: Joelinton
A £40m flop turned midfield destroyer. Joelinton is very a popular figure on Tyneside and recently signed a new long-term contract. | AFP via Getty Images
10. RW: Johan Bakayoko
Bakayoko is the latest right forward linked with Newcastle as a cheaper alternative to say Bryan Mbeumo for example. Howe, however, has already warned it could be a quiet January. | Getty Images
11. LW: Anthony Gordon
Gordon won the club's player of the year award last season before going to Euro 2024 with England. He hasn't been as consistent this campaign but his quality is undoubted. | Getty Images
12. ST: Alexander Isak
In Isak, Newcastle possess one of the best strikers in the world and must do everything to keep the Swede here for a very long time. Enough said. | Getty Images