Newcastle are preparing for the January transfer window with manager Eddie Howe given permission to make reinforcements to the squad if he deems it necessary this winter. Following last summer’s big spending spree, which saw them spend £250m after a few good spells, the focus is now on strengthening the squad’s depth. The Magpies are considering young players as Howe’s scouting network scrutinizes potential talent as they aim to maintain future sale value.
Chronicle Live claims Mr Howe has been informed by PIF that the long-term aim is to avoid signing too many older players. This is in stark contrast to the first period following the takeover, when Kieran Trippier, Chris Wood, Matt Targett and Dan Byrne were all called up to avoid relegation.
This summer’s spending has shown United’s serious intentions to strengthen, with star signings such as Nick Woltemade, Malik Chiau, Jacob Ramsey, Yoan Wissa, Aaron Ramsdale and Anthony Elanga. No major changes are expected in January, but names are once again starting to be suggested to the Magpies through intermediaries.
Newcastle are keeping an eye on the performances of Brentford’s Brazilian striker Igor Thiago, who has attracted the attention of scouts with his impressive start to the season. The 24-year-old was sidelined for almost a year due to knee problems, although he suffered a serious meniscus injury in 2024 that was somewhat downplayed by some experts.
After a long spell away, he gradually returned towards the end of last season, but Thiago appears to have rediscovered his best Premier League form after completing his pre-season preparations with the Bees.
Newcastle have made a number of deals with Brentford, signing Yoan Wissa this summer. These negotiations dragged on and the pursuit of Brian Mbeumo failed, ultimately resulting in him joining Manchester United.
The Magpies will be wary of entering into negotiations with their Premier League rivals again.
But Igor, who has already scored five goals this season, has shown enough quality to warrant Brentford spending £30m on his signature.
Signing a senior frontman is not Newcastle’s immediate priority following the arrival of Wissa, who has yet to feature this campaign, and Wolte Maid’s impressive performances, but Thiago had caught the eye of recruitment director Steve Nixon prior to the takeover, and the former Blackburn scout still recognized the player’s abilities.
Sandro Tonali has won “world-class” praise from experts including Paul Scholes following his impressive start to the campaign.
But Newcastle supporters need not worry, especially with speculation surrounding a possible exit to Italy’s Serie A. United officials understand that no club in his home country has the financial resources to secure him. Similar to their stance on Alexander Isak, Newcastle will command a premium price for Tonali, with a valuation in excess of £130m expected for interested parties.
Unlike the golden era of Serie A, when legends such as Ruud Gullit, Gazza, Dennis Bergkamp and Tino Asprilla joined Italy’s elite clubs, the division can no longer compete for top players. CEO David Hopkinson is well aware of the need to re-evaluate Tonali’s contract and the job is likely to be one of the first on Wilson’s agenda when he takes up his new role following his move from Nottingham Forest.
Alan Shearer vowed to return to management, but after enjoying success in the English Bowlers League last season, he is back to try again.
Shearer will team up with former England colleague, close friend and pundit partner Ian Wright to take the reins of Wembley Rangers FC.
The televised six-a-side league received 31 billion impressions and more than 7.7 million hours watched online during its inaugural season.
Baller League CEO Felix Starck said: “Following the huge success of Baller League in Germany and Season 1 in the UK, we are very excited about the second season, which will raise the level of competition even further.”
“Season 2 sees Newcastle legend and all-time top goalscorer in the Premier League, Alan Shearer, team up with his good friend Ian Wright at Wembley Rangers FC. The new duo bring a wealth of experience, goals and tactical knowledge to the team.”
