The St James’ Park faithful are expecting a busy month of transfer activity as Eddie Howe prepares for his fifth transfer window as Newcastle United boss. The Magpies have made huge strides in all of the previous windows and the team has rapidly ascended to a club fighting relegation to one that is competing for greatness at the very top of the football pyramid.
Newcastle have showcased this progress during the first half of the season by beating the likes of Manchester United, Chelsea and Arsenal in the league, whilst also eliminating treble winners Manchester City from the Carabao Cup. An historic Champions League night at PSG was yet another example of the steps the club has taken in such a short space of time.
However, the added pressure of European football, has also brought with it a number of new challenges and Newcastle’s squad depth has been heavily tested by a mixture of injuries and fatigue with notable losses to Brighton, Everton, Bournemouth and Tottenham all proving to be low points in the club’s battle to retain their Champions League status.
The January transfer window can be a make or break time for any club, and with that in mind Newcastle World has assembled the most likely starting XI for Eddie Howe’s side in the second half of the window if all the transfer rumours are true.
1. GK: David de Gea
Nick Pope's long term injury could prompt Newcastle to move for a goalkeeper. David de Gea is available for free in January and is still seeking a club after his Man Utd exit. (Getty Images) | Manchester United via Getty Imag
2. RB: Kieran Trippier
Kieran Trippier has been a stalwart in Eddie Howe's team since his arrival and he is he is likely to play a key role in yet another top four push. (Getty Images) | Getty Images
3. CB: Piero Hincapie
Newcastle are hoping to bolster their squad depth in the centre back area and 22-year-old Piero Hincapie is one who has reportedly caught the eye of Eddie Howe. The Ecuador international currently plays for Bayer Leverkusen but has a £60m release clause which could be activated. (Getty Images) | Getty Images
4. CB: Sven Botman
Sven Botman has been a key member of the defence since his arrival from Lille. (Getty Images) | Getty Images