Newcastle United have been quiet in the January transfer window in recent years, but that could change in 2026.
The £125million departure of Alexander Isak has given Newcastle United capacity to spend, and there is a clear desire from Ross Wilson to strengthen the Magpies’ squad midway through the 2025/26 season.
Eddie Howe would love to add a midfielder to his squad, but Kees Smit is unlikely to arrive. His next club will not be decided until the summer, forcing Newcastle United to wait for the Dutchman.
But defensive reinforcements are still possible, with the Magpies looking to bring in a full-back.
You can sign ONE defender in January, who are you taking? ✍️
Newcastle United intend to bid for Dayann Methalie despite injury
More cover at left-back is essential, which is why Newcastle want to sign Dayann Methalie from Toulouse.
The 19-year-old, who was described as ‘fearless’ by the official Ligue 1 website, has impressed the Toon recruitment team. However, there were fears that injury could derail a January move to St James’ Park.
Methalie currently has a knee injury, but a new report from the Daily Mail suggests that will not put the Magpies off.
They report that Newcastle United are still expected to bid for the French teenager, with Howe’s side keen to snap Methalie up ahead of their competitors.
Newcastle would be wise to go all in on Methalie, as there is clearly a need for additional cover at left-back.
Lewis Hall does not have a proper understudy in that position, with Tino Livramento a right-back by trade and centre-back being Dan Burn’s best position.
If you could sign ONE Premier League player this month – who would it be?
Injury boost should strengthen Newcastle United’s bid for Dayann Methalie
Full-back has been a real problem for Newcastle United in recent weeks.
Until Newcastle’s win over Crystal Palace, Hall was the only senior full-back available to Howe. Lewis Miley has been forced to play at right-back, with Tino Livramento and Kieran Trippier out injured.
But they are both fit again, giving Howe the options on the right that he has been craving. It reduces the need for Newcastle United to sign a right-back, whereas that need still remains on the left.
With Newcastle now in a much stronger position on the right, they can focus their efforts on bringing the left side of defence up to the same standard.
Signing Methalie would be a step in the right direction, as he looks like a player with a lot of potential who can provide adequate cover for Hall. He can also play at centre-back, which will make him even more appealing to Howe.
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