Less than a fortnight remains in the winter window with the 60-year-old fully aware that any potential incomings will have to be loan deals.
The Gazette revealed earlier in the month the Magpies had agreed the framework of a deal to sign Manchester United full-back Brandon Williams on a temporary basis.
However, at the moment, the 20-year-old looks set to stay at Old Trafford, despite playing just six minutes of Premier League football this season.
Sky Sports reporter Keith Downie has relayed Newcastle’s interest in Williams, while also throwing Leicester City midfielder Hamza Choudhury into the mix.
“I know there is interest in Brandon Williams from Manchester United,” Downie told Sky’s Transfer Talk Show. “
"However we have mentioned Southampton and Bayer Leverkusen, so there is a lot of interest in that player. Whether he (Bruce) can bring him to Newcastle, we’ll have to wait and see.”
He added: “Steve Bruce feels he’s not got legs in his midfield to get up and down the park, get back and defend and also support the strikers, I think we saw that against Arsenal.
“The player he’s interested in is Leicester City’s Hamza Choudhury, but again, there’s lots of interest in that young player to bring him in on loan. He will need to fend off competition if he were to bring him in.
“That one as well, could go to the wire.”
Meanwhile, another Premier League club has joined a long list of names - including Newcastle - in the race for Josh King.
Here’s a round-up of some of the other transfer rumours involving Newcastle and their Premier League rivals this morning:
1. Wolves set to sign Jose
Wolves are closing in on the loan signing of Real Sociedad striker Willian Jose, which includes an option to buy at the end of the season. Completion of the deal could take until next week due to post-Brexit work permit rules. (Daily Telegraph) Photo: Juan Manuel Serrano Arce
2. Hammers prepare fresh En-Nesyri bid
West Ham United are preparing a fresh £32million offer for Sevilla forward Youssef En-Nesyri but the La Liga club want at least £35million with a higher fixed fee, paid up front and not in installments. (Daily Star) Photo: DAMIEN MEYER
3. Gunners make Odegaard approach
Arsenal have made an approach to sign Real Madrid attacking midfielder Martin Odegaard, though face strong competition from at least one other Premier League club and Real Sociedad, where he impressed on loan last season. (Sky Sports) Photo: JORGE GUERRERO
4. Man Utd join race for Brazilian wonderkid
Manchester United have made steps to beat Barcelona and Manchester City to the signing of Brazilian wonderkid Gabriel Veron. The Palmeiras forward has a £53million release clause but potential suitors could force their hand by offering around £18million. (Sport) Photo: Miguel Schincariol