The 60-year-old was always going to face an uphill battle replacing the widely-revered Rafa Benitez on Tyneside, and his stodgy, passive style of play has done little to endear him to a fanbase who have put up with their fair share of disappointment over the past decade.
With that in mind, The Sun’s latest report on what is going on behind the scenes at St. James’ Park is certainly an interesting one.
According to the tabloid, Newcastle will not look to oust Bruce, but will instead try to kickstart their season by making a move for Bournemouth first team coach Graeme Jones.
It is understood that Bruce himself is keen to recruit the Gateshead-born 50-year-old, and Toon chiefs are fully willing to back the move.
Jones’ track record is certainly impressive.
The coach has worked with everyone from West Brom to the Belgian national team, and is well-respected in the professional game.
His only stint in the top job at a club came at Luton Town in 2019-20, however, and his win percentage came in at a fairly underwhelming 29.3%.
Elsewhere, the Toon Army have been credited with an interest in USA youth international Chris Gloster.
The left-back is on the books at Dutch outfit PSV Eindhoven, and is a regular for the USMNT’s U23s.
According to ESPN, the Magpies are interested in bringing the 20-year-old to England, but any potential deal could come with a couple of caveats.
For one thing, it would depend on the youngster being able to secure a work permit in the UK.
Secondly, the report suggests that Gloster would start out with the reserve team setup in Tyneside before being given the opportunity to challenge for Jamal Lewis’ starting spot in Steve Bruce’s squad.
Either way, Gloster clearly has potential.
So far this season he has averaged more dribbles, more crosses, more interceptions, and more interceptions per 90 minutes than the former Norwich City man.
Click and scroll through the rest of today’s Premier League transfer rumours below:
5. Leicester consider Eriksen loan
Leicester City are considering a potential loan move for Christian Eriksen. Inter Milan are refusing to offer any kind of discount on his £300,000-a-week wages, however. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images) Photo: Gabriele Maltinti
6. Roberts set to stay
Leeds United forward Tyler Roberts is set to stay at the club this month, despite interest from a number of Championship clubs. (The Athletic) (Photo by Jon Super - Pool/Getty Images) Photo: Pool
7. Wigan turn down Joseph bid
Wigan Athletic have turned down a bid for teenage striker Kyle Joseph from a Championship side. The forward has been linked with a move to Sheffield United. (Sky Sports) (Photo by Lewis Storey/Getty Images) Photo: Lewis Storey
8. Newcastle keen on Gloster
PSV Eindhoven and USMNT youth international left back Chris Gloster has drawn interest from Newcastle United. Any potential switch to the Premier League would be subject to a work permit. (ESPN) (Photo by RODRIGO ARANGUA/AFP via Getty Images) Photo: RODRIGO ARANGUA