Speaking to the broadcast media after Saturday’s 2-0 win at Everton, Bruce said: "We’ll see what develops – I think it could be a busy 48 hours for a few clubs.
“We hope that we can still do one or two things.”
So who could United have in the pipeline? Well, according to numerous reports, there are a fair few names being considered.
The Magpies are believed to have held discussions over Leicester City’s Hamza Choudhury, Celtic’s Oliver Ntcham and Arsenal’s Joe Willock.
Choudhury is thought to be more likely of the three in terms of a transfer as Newcastle need to convince the Gunners to loan Willock, who has impressed in their Europa League campaign.
Meanwhile, Ntcham is wanted by Marseille – as per Football Insider – which means United could face some tough competition for the £7million-rated former Manchester City midfielder.
Perhaps the most surprising player to be linked with a switch to St James’s Park over the last 24 hours is Paris Saint-Germain’s Idrissa Gueye.
The 31-year-old joined the French champions for £30million from Everton in 2019 and has appeared 21 times in all competitions this season.
However, despite playing the majority of PSG’s games, L’Equipe says Newcastle have agreed a loan deal but ultimately, the Senegal international is in no way interested in moving to Tyneside.
He is, however, open to returning to the Premier League but only for a team in the top half of the table.
But it isn’t just potential incomings that are hitting the headlines.
The Longstaff brothers – Sean and Matty, Matt Ritchie and Achraf Lazaar have been linked with exits, while DeAndre Yedlin’s move to Galatasaray is all-but done.
Here’s a round-up of some of the other deadline day rumours involving Newcastle and their top-flight rivals this morning:
9. Hands off Pablo
Castellon tried to tempt Pablo Hernandez back to Spain this month, however Leeds are not willing to lose the 35-year-old, whose contract doesn’t expire until the summer of 2022. (The Athletic) Photo: Shaun Botterill
10. Watford open Longstaff talks
Watford have opened talks with Newcastle United over a possible loan move for midfielder Matty Longstaff. The 20-year-old’s exit could pave the way for Steve Bruce to add a midfielder to his squad. (Football Insider) Photo: Catherine Ivill
11. Perraud considered by Leeds & Saints
Leeds and Southampton have made contact with French club Brest over left-back Romain Perraud. Despite him recently signing a contract extension, both clubs are considering a summer move for the 23-year-old. (Le10Sport) Photo: PHILIPPE DESMAZES
12. Newcastle hold discussions with midfielders
Newcastle are in discussions with Leicester City’s Hamza Choudhury, Celtic’s Oliver Ntcham and Arsenal’s Joe Willock as Bruce hopes to get at least two deals over the line before this evening’s deadline. (Northern Echo) Photo: MOLLY DARLINGTON