Newcastle United given 'green light' to complete defender transfer after injury blow

Injuries at Newcastle United could force them into signing defensive recruitments this month.

The Magpies were not expected to be too busy during the January transfer window, but a growing injury list impacting their defensive options may force them into the market. Tino Livramento has been ruled-out for eight weeks, Fabian Schar is set for an extended period on the sidelines whilst Dan Burn is not expected back in action until later this month.

Burn’s return will offer some respite to their current defensive options, Newcastle United still have a number of games to play until that point - including Premier League and Champions League matches. Recalling Matt Targett from his loan spell at Middlesbrough is an option for the Magpies - and one that they can trigger at any point between now and the end of the month.

However, because Targett is out of contract this summer, recalling him would offer a short-term fix, but it wouldn’t help their long-term planning. Transfers can be difficult to complete mid-season, but circumstances out of their control may have forced their hand - and Newcastle United will be desperate to ensure they do not make a wrong move.

Atalanta’s Giorgio Scalvini has long been linked with a potential switch to Tyneside, but that deal looks very unlikely to happen this month. The Italian is a big part of his club’s plans and any bid from the Magpies will face very stiff resistance from Atalanta.

Scalvini’s recent injury record will also be a major concern, especially if he is brought to Tyneside as a direct consequence of injuries within Eddie Howe’s squad. That transfer is a non-starter.

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If Scalvini is not the answer this month, then Toulouse defender Dayan Methalie could be. The young defender has been scouted by the Magpies and remains on their shortlist, despite a recent knee injury.

Eddie Howe comments on Newcastle United transfer policy

Howe has recently admitted that the club’s transfer business will be dictated by injuries within his squad. Speaking prior to the window opening, Howe insisted that the club would assess the squad and make decisions on incomings if and when required.

However, injuries to Livramento and Schar may force their hand: “We need to know the full extend of injuries first, then make a decision around that,” United’s head coach said.

“Regarding transfers, everybody is fully supportive. The problem for us is PSR. I don’t think there is any issue with anyone saying we can’t do this and we can’t do that.

“It’s more about what we can do, not what we can’t do. The key thing for us to consider is business now versus business in the summer.

“It’s value for money now vs value for money in the summer, and signing the right player. If you sign the wrong player now you are carrying that for a three, four or five year contract.

“Are the right players available in January? So, there is a lot to discuss and a lot to consider for our short-term needs and long-term decisions for the football club.”

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