Newcastle have ‘internally’ discussed signing a player that Eddie Howe is ‘crying out for’

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There is a fear of staleness at Newcastle United.

Newcastle United are struggling for goals this season, as Eddie Howe’s side continue to fall short against teams that utilise a low block.

The Magpies are not very good at breaking teams down. And it is becoming more and more of an issue, as teams start to figure out how to stop them.

It happened against West Ham last week. Callum Wilson admitted that Newcastle were not clever enough in and around the box, as they failed to score against a Hammers side that Leicester City breezed past on Tuesday night.

Newcastle’s attacking woes continued against Crystal Palace, with the Magpies relying on a Marc Guehi own goal. Eddie Howe has vowed to fix Newcastle’s problem, but it is unclear what the solution is.

Newcastle United need an attacking midfielder

For many, a change in system is required. Newcastle have played 4-3-3 for almost the entirety of Howe’s tenure, and it has made them slightly predictable.

That is why TBR Football insider Graeme Bailey has told Geordie Boot Boys that Newcastle United are ‘crying out’ for an attacking midfielder, having previously targeted players who can play in that position.

“Newcastle are crying out for a number 10,” he said.

“I have thought that for a long time, and I think recent results prove that. Newcastle do not have than plan b. You have to give teams something else to think about.

“They were linked with Lucas Paqueta when he was at Lyon, and there was also the James Maddison pursuit. Morgan Gibbs-White is another player that they have looked at.

“Internally, it’s definitely a position that has been discussed.”

PSR could stop Newcastle recruiting in that position

While Newcastle have persisted with the same formation, there has been hints of evolution.

Out of the three players that Bailey mentioned, James Maddison was probably the closest to arriving at St James’ Park. He was a major target in 2023, and his arrival surely would have resulted in the Magpies altering their shape from 4-3-3 to 4-2-3-1.

Newcastle really could benefit from a central player who can unlock defences. For all their talent in centre-midfield, they do not have a player that can do that.

That is something that potentially needs to be addressed in 2025, but that will be very difficult due to PSR.

The Magpies already want to sign a centre-back, a right winger and a striker in 2025, while the goalkeeper situation could also be readdressed.

While Newcastle have wealthy owners in PIF, the club is simply not rich enough to sign an attacking midfielder as well – even if it is what Eddie Howe is crying out for.