Steve Bruce drops a hint on Newcastle United's transfer plans

Head of recruitment Steve Nickson – who visited South America on club business earlier this month – has been drawing up lists of potential targets.

Bruce has previously highlighted midfield as an area which could be strengthened in the New Year.

United are understood to be looking, initially, at the loan market.

However, Bruce has claimed that he’s “happy” with his squad ahead of tomorrow’s home game against Premier League champions Manchester City – and he has stressed that the club won’t sign anyone “for the sake of it”.

Asked about the club’s January plans, United's head coach said: “It’s always to look at, but I’m happy with the squad, and I’ve not seen them in total yet. If there’s someone out there to improve us in January, then we’ll have a look at it.

“I’ve been in it long enough to know sometimes you need to be patient, and if you can’t get better then you can’t just bring them in for the sake of it. It’s very difficult, as people don’t want to sell their best (players) in January.

“It’s a difficult, difficult month. If there’s something out there to improve us, then we will.”

Newcastle, beaten 2-0 by Aston Villa at Villa Park on Monday night, are 14th in the league table and five points above the relegation zone. City are third behind Liverpool and Leicester City.