‘No doubt’ Newcastle United could make move for Sunderland star amid ‘interest’ in Premier League defender

Newcastle United are now just days away from resuming their Premier League campaign.

The Magpies have put together a disappointing start so far, showing defensive fragility that was not there last season, and Eddie Howe knows he needs to iron out those issues ahead of the Champions League getting started next week. Newcastle will be expected to put up a good fight in their so-called ‘group of death’, while another European finish of some sort will be expected in the Premier League.

In the meantime, we have rounded up all the latest news and transfer rumours surrounding St James’ Park.

Kelly interest

Newcastle are said to be one of the clubs interested in AFC Bournemouth midfielder Lloyd Kelly ahead of January.

Kelly has been a key part of the Cherries’ back-line over recent times, but he faces an uncertain future with his contract set to expire next summer. A number of clubs are now reportedly interested, and according to Football Insider, Newcastle are showing an interest as they already contemplate adding further defensive depth in the winter.

Liverpool and a number of other clubs are also being linked, with Kelly potentially available for a good price given his contract situation.

Rigg links

Newcastle are being tipped to make a move for Sunderland starlet Chris Rigg.

Ben Jacobs told GiveMeSport: “It's one to watch, for sure. Even though he is at Sunderland, a vast proportion of his family are all Newcastle fans as well. I think that one could be one to watch in January. Newcastle are concurrently planning for their future as well as the present. Garang Kuol is a good example and so is Harrison Ashby, who West Ham simply didn't want to lose.

“Newcastle have made a few moves for young players in the market and beaten rivals to them. Rigg is seen as one of the top midfield prospects in the country and he is also only 16 years of age at the moment. He scored against Southampton last weekend. When he got that goal, he also became Sunderland's youngest ever league scorer. But he needs minutes and time to develop as well, so the player side won't want to rush into anything. However, there's absolutely no doubt that Newcastle are keeping tabs, and I would say that is exactly the same for Manchester United as well."