After a busy last couple of transfer windows, Newcastle have yet to make their move in the market this window, bar the permanent arrival of Granag Kuol on Tyneside.
Financial Fair Play constraints mean the club may have to act smart this window if they want to improve the current first-team squad, but there are options available to them should they feel Howe’s side need strengthened.
But who are some of these bargain transfers? And would any of them get into Howe’s starting XI should they make the move to St James’s Park this month?
Here, we take a look at what Howe’s Newcastle United starting XI could look like following the January transfer window.
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1. GK: Nick Pope
Pope has solidified himself as Newcastle’s No.1 and despite added competition from Martin Dubravka who has returned from his Manchester United loan spell, will likely be the main man in between the sticks for Newcastle for the remainder of the season and beyond. Photo: Justin Setterfield
2. RB: Kieran Trippier
Trippier makes Newcastle a better team when he is on the pitch and will undoubtedly play a major role in Newcastle’s progress over the next couple of seasons. Photo: Laurence Griffiths
3. CB: Evan Ndicka
The Frenchman, whose deal at Eintracht Frankfurt expires at the end of the season, has emerged as a target for numerous clubs across Europe, including Newcastle. With Fabian Schar into his 30’s, could Ndicka be the man Newcastle see as a good option for the future? Photo: Frederic Scheidemann
4. CB: Sven Botman
Botman’s unbeaten record in a Newcastle shirt may have gone at the weekend, but the Dutchman’s performances have been almost flawless since he made the switch from Lille in the summer. Photo: BEN STANSALL