£25m star Newcastle United wanted to sign just showed Eddie Howe exactly what he’s missing

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Newcastle United ended the January transfer window empty-handed after deciding to wait until the summer.

That decision was largely forced by the Profit and Sustainability Rules, which have left Newcastle United within touching distance of a points deduction in recent years.

Instead, Paul Mitchell was focused on raising cash last month with Miguel Almiron joining Atlanta United and Lloyd Kelly signing for Juventus. Those two deals will raise over £30m by the summer.

Hopefully, Newcastle’s PSR problems are a thing of the past, and the Magpies can start preparing for a more exciting summer window.

Newcastle’s 4-0 defeat to Manchester City on Saturday afternoon proved that reinforcements are needed, and Eddie Howe may feel frustrated that he was denied any new signings last month.

James McAtee reminds Newcastle United of his talent

Newcastle want to improve three positions in the summer, including a central midfielder.

According to reports, Newcastle were interested in James McAtee over January after being impressed by the 22-year-old midfielder.

Newcastle were ‘waiting in the wings’ for McAtee but decided against a move last month. Interest could be reignited in the summer, but the midfielder’s value could soar by then.

City valued McAtee at £25m but he proved on Saturday afternoon that he is a truly exciting talent. He came off the bench and scored City’s fourth of the game against Newcastle.

Howe and Mitchell may be kicking themselves after passing up the opportunity to sign McAtee in January.

James McAtee shines in short cameo vs Newcastle

James McAtee replaced Phil Foden for the final 14 minutes of the Premier League clash against Newcastle on Saturday afternoon.

He scored City’s fourth from close range following a corner, and overall his performance was short but sweet.

Here is a collection of McAtee’s match stats vs Newcastle:

READ MORE: Newcastle United handed summer boost as Manchester City make transfer decision

McAtee has now made eight Premier League appearances for City this season, scoring twice. Five of those have come since the turn of the year, showing his increased importance to Pep Guardiola.