We asked AI to predict Newcastle United's January transfer window business as three new signings made
Who will Newcastle United sign in the January transfer window, according to AI?
Newcastle United are struggling so far this season and currently sit 12th in the Premier League on 22 points from a possible 48.
Their latest defeat will be one that hurts the most as they were humbled by their arch rivals, Sunderland, at the Stadium of Light after Magpies striker Nick Woltemade headed into his own net. Eddie Howe’s side now sit four points off Regis Le Bris’ Black Cats, who have made a remarkable return to life back in the Premier League and sit even further behind the Champions League positions.
Now, with a fight on for the rest of the season to improve on their limp form, could the transfer window opening in a few weeks see Newcastle add some impetus to their side and help them gather momentum? We’ve asked Google’s Gemini AI chatbot to identify some key targets Newcastle could sign to enhance their chances this season.
Gemini: Newcastle requires a high-quality, experienced holding or deep-lying central midfielder. While Bruno Guimarães is elite, he needs a reliable partner or backup to manage his workload and maintain control in the centre of the pitch. Furthermore, the club is rebuilding the midfield. Neves is a proven Premier League veteran known for his passing range, defensive tenacity, and long-range shooting. He can immediately slot into the team and play a significant number of games.
His current contract situation in Saudi Arabia and the club's existing relationship with the Saudi PIF ownership create a unique scenario. The reported fee is relatively low (around £18m-£20m), making it an attractive deal for an established international player, provided his high wage demands can be negotiated down. He represents a rare January bargain of proven quality.
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Davide Frattesi - Inter Milan
Gemini: Frattesi is a 26-year-old Italian international box-to-box midfielder, known for his relentless running, late arrivals into the box to score goals, and high work rate. He is a high-energy player perfectly suited to Eddie Howe's system.
Newcastle's midfield relies heavily on Guimarães and Joelinton. Frattesi would provide a consistent goal threat and relentless energy from midfield, something the squad currently lacks outside of the starting XI.
He is reportedly seeking more consistent game time at Inter Milan, having been used more rotationally. This lack of guaranteed minutes could make Inter open to a sale if the €35 million valuation is met. Juventus and Napoli are also reportedly monitoring his situation, especially since he is open to a move for more playing time. A deal in January would only happen if Inter finds an adequate replacement or if Newcastle meets the valuation
James Trafford - Manchester City
Gemini: Trafford is a highly-rated, young English goalkeeper who recently moved to Manchester City. He is known for his penalty saving, impressive shot-stopping, and confident distribution. Crucially, he is Homegrown.
There are reports that Manchester City may include Trafford in a player-plus-cash deal for Tino Livramento. Newcastle would be keen on Trafford, but remain determined to resist selling Livramento. If a sale of Livramento is off the table, a direct move for Trafford in January is still possible but less likely unless a separate, high-value bid is made.