Newcastle United transfer rumours: Reported Manchester United target linked as defender attracts interest

Newcastle have been linked with Everton defender Mason Holgate.

Newcastle United boss Steve Bruce has said he’s expecting a quiet month on Tyneside but the club may act if the right deal arises.

One area where the Magpies don’t appear short of options is at the back, with Fabian Schar, Federico Fernandez, Florian Lejeune, Paul Dummett, Ciaran Clark, Jamaal Lascelles providing competition for places defence.

Yet according to Football Insider, the Magpies are also keeping close tabs on Everton defender Mason Holgate, a player who has made 10 Premier League appearances for the Toffees this season.

The report claims Everton value the 23-year-old at £14million and his situation could depend on the club’s next managerial appointment following Marco Silva’s sacking earlier this month.

At the other end of the pitch, Bruce may want to strengthen his side's attacking options, as just two Premier League sides (Crystal Palace and Watford) have scored less league goals than the Magpies this season.

According to the Guardian, Newcastle are just one of the clubs interested in Burnley wideman Dwight McNeil.

The 20-year-old has been a regular for Sean Dyche’s side this season, featuring 16 times for the Clarets, and has previously been linked with Manchester United.

It’s now been claimed that Crystal Palace have identified McNeil as a potential replacement for Wilfred Zaha, yet it’s unlikely Burnley will allow the winger to leave in January.