Newcastle United blow as defender has decided he wants to join Brentford instead

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The January transfer window feels like a constant stream of bad news for Newcastle United.

While things are going incredibly well on the pitch, it has been a difficult month off it for Newcastle United.

PSR continues to plague the Magpies, who appear unable to strengthen their squad during the January transfer window. Newcastle must sell before they buy, but even the imminent departure of Miguel Almiron is unlikely to lead to reinforcements arriving.

All the while, Newcastle’s targets pass them by. Adbukodir Khusanov has joined Manchester City, while another long-term Toon target is on his way to a Premier League rival.

Michael Kayode to join Brentford

Newcastle United are long-term admirers of Michael Kayode, with the right-back viewed as a potential addition to Eddie Howe’s squad.

However, a transfer from Fiorentina to Newcastle United is no longer on the cards.

That is because, according to Fabrizio Romano, the right-back is set to join Premier League rivals Brentford.

Romano wrote on X: “Brentford are closing in on Michael Kayode deal with Fiorentina. Negotiations at final stages after player’s green light, key details being clarified in club to club talks.”

Newcastle United must address right-back situation

It was recently reported that Kayode will cost £12.5million this month. That could have been a bargain deal for Newcastle, but it is Brentford who are swooping in.

Unlike the Magpies, they clearly have the financial capacity to spend this month without the fears of not complying with PSR in the summer.

It is a blow for Newcastle, as right-back is a position they need to invest in. While Newcastle are well stocked with Tino Livramento and Kieran Trippier, the latter was looking to leave the club in the summer.

Trippier asked to leave Newcastle, but was denied an exit. Since then, rumours have continued over his future, but there has been no movement on a January departure.

That could change in the summer, when the 34-year-old enters the final year of his Toon contract. A move away from St James’ Park feels likely, but he will need to be replaced.

20-year-old Michael Kayode could have filled that role, but he is now taking his talents to the Gtech Community Stadium, where he will play alongside the likes of Toon target Sepp van den Berg and Bryan Mbeumo.