Newcastle United 'eye' TWO midfielders, ex-Premier League boss likens Magpies to 'a circus'

Here are the latest rumours and headlines surrounding the Magpies as we head into the weekend.

Steve Bruce eyes Joe Willock alternative

Newcastle United are considering a move for Huddersfield Town midfielder Lewis O’Brien.

That’s according to The Sun, who claims Steve Bruce views the 22-year-old as a less expensive alternative to Joe Willock.

Bruce is keen to sign Willock from Arsenal on a permanent deal but could struggle to meet his reported £20million price tag.

That is where O’Brien comes into the equation, who would likely cost around £4m.

The Magpies could face competition however as Burnley were linked with O’Brien during the January transfer window.

James McCarthy reportedly on Toon radar

Another midfield reportedly on Newcastle's radar is Crystal Palace’s James McCarthy.

The Republic of Ireland international is out of contract this summer and is attracting plenty of interest.

Burnley, as well as Newcastle, are keen to hold talks with the former Everton man over a free transfer, as per TEAMTalk.

McCarthy has played just 13 times in the Premier League this season having struggled with injuries.

Paul Jewell hits out at Newcastle ‘circus’

Former Wigan Athletic manager Paul Jewell has defended Steve Bruce and labelled Newcastle “a circus at times”.

Bruce was under significant pressure from the club’s supporters after a torrid run that put them on the brink of the relegation zone.

However, two wins and two draws in his last four games has seen Bruce lift his side nine points above to the drop zone.

Jewell told This Is Futbol: “He’s had to put up with stick from day one at Newcastle and that might be because he used to manage Sunderland, but I really don’t know.

"Steve will be the first to say a club like Newcastle shouldn’t be at the lower echelons of the Premier League.

“Newcastle is a circus at times so Steve must be pulling his hair out, and I’m sure that like a lot of supporters people just don’t understand what’s going.”

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