The incomings on the agenda as Newcastle United hope for further transfer boosts

As another week begins at St James’ Park, the focus remains heavily on Newcastle United’s transfer business.

A 1-1 draw with Watford on Saturday only highlighted the need for further recruits, with Eddie Howe’s side still in the thick of a relegation battle.

And while the start to the window has been a positive one - with Kieran Trippier and Chris Wood already through the door - there is an understanding from all concerned that additional incomings will be required.

With every point vital in the club’s bid to climb away from danger, there will be a concerted effort to achieve further transfer breakthroughs ahead of the visit to Leeds United on Saturday.

So what potential incomings are on the agenda this week? NewcastleWorld picks out FIVE potential deals to follow with interest ahead of the trip to Elland Road...

DIEGO CARLOS

Now a move for Sven Botman is looking increasingly unlikely - with Lille unwilling to sell before the summer - Newcastle will have to turn their attention to alternative defensive targets.

A new central defender is understood to be a priority for Howe, and Carlos is a name that has been frequently linked with Tyneside during the window.

Reports have suggested that Newcastle are waiting for a response from Sevilla over the 28-year-old, but that the player himself is keen on a move to the North East.

He is far from the only defensive target on Newcastle’s radar, but appears to be the focus of much of the club’s attention at present.

JAMES TARKOWSKI

Another name linked with Newcastle is Burnley’s Tarkowski.

The 29-year-old is set to see his contract at Turf Moor expire in the summer, which has naturally prompted speculation that an exit in January could be on the table.

Burnley, who have already seen talisman Wood depart for St James’ Park, are loathe to let the centre back leave and the word from Lancashire is that Tarkowski is focused on his football and as such won’t be actively pursuing a move in January.

It looks an unlikely prospect. But as we saw with Wood last week, you can never say never.

ROBIN GOSENS

Newcastle’s rumoured interest in the German international emerged over the weekend, with Howe thought to be looking for additional options on the left flank.

Gosens is currently injured and unlikely to return to action until February, but that hasn’t stopped the Magpies from being linked with the Atalanta wing-back - and reportedly offering to significantly increase his current salary.

His current employers have played down talk of a deal, while the 27-year-old has previously made no secret of his desire to pursue a move to the Bundesliga as opposed to any of Europe’s other top leagues.

Any potential swoop for the wideman doesn’t appear to be at advanced stage, but it’s one to watch in the coming days.

TODD CANTWELL

In addition to defensive signings, Howe is also keen to freshen up his attacking options.

Only three teams have scored fewer goals than Newcastle this season, and so alternative options in the final third look to be a necessity.

Norwich City’s Cantwell is one name thought to be on the club’s radar, and his recent absence from the Canaries’ squad prompted some speculation that a move could be close.

But Dean Smith confirmed last week that the winger’s absence was due to injury - and that no bids had been received for the 23-year-old.

Newcastle are understood to be one of a number of clubs keeping tabs on Cantwell’s situation, and there could be movement from an interested party in the near future.

HUGO EKITIKE

The 19-year-old French striker has hit the headlines with some dazzling performances for Reims this season, and is now the subject of Premier League interest.

As well as Newcastle, it is thought that Chelsea are keen on the youngster and could make their move in the coming days.

Ekitike is understood to be a player that Howe rates highly, but he could command a large fee given his age and the volume of clubs monitoring him.