Eddie Howe could turn to one of his former players to solve Newcastle United’s midfield woes.
The Magpies are currently very shy of options in the middle of the park, with Eddie Howe only boasting three fit and available centre midfielders at this moment in time.
Sandro Tonali is suspended until August, while Joelinton could be out for the rest of the season with an injury. Newcastle are also currently without Joe Willock and Elliot Anderson, who are both struggling for fitness.
It is a difficult situation for Howe, who also has the looming issue of a two-game suspension for Bruno Guimaraes. If the 26-year-old picks up one more booking in the Premier League, he will be banned for two games.
That is why Newcastle are so keen to sign a midfielder this month, but their interest in Kalvin Phillips is yet to lead to an agreement with Manchester City.
And now the Daily Mail has named a new alternative.
Newcastle are interested in Bournemouth’s Philip Billing
According to the Daily Mail, Bournemouth midfielder Philip Billing is on Newcastle United’s shortlist of potential midfield signings.
They state that the club could be looking for a replacement for Joelinton, who is entering the final 18 months of his contract at St James’ Park.
Billing would be an interesting addition, and he certainly does have a similar stature to Joelinton. The Bournemouth star is a powerful runner with the ball, while he has also proven to be very influential in the final third.
The 27-year-old scored seven goals and provided one assist for the Cherries as they avoided relegation last season, while this campaign has seen him record four goal contributions so far.
But the most interesting thing about this rumour is his relationship with Eddie Howe.
Billing has history with Eddie Howe
It was Howe who signed him for Bournemouth back in 2019. He arrived from Huddersfield Town for £15million.
The Newcastle boss has previously described Billing as an ‘outstanding athlete‘, while the Denmark international admitted that Howe was the reason he decided to move to the Vitality Stadium.
He said: “It was first and foremost the head coach Eddie Howe, who attracted me. I had other offers, but I heard many good things about Howe, the way he develops young players. When Bournemouth came (for me), I made the choice very quickly because of Howe.”
Now there is a chance that Billing could follow Howe to Newcastle, at a time when they are desperate for midfield reinforcements.
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