Newcastle tipped to complete ‘exciting’ triple swoop after £30m Botman update – pundit
Newcastle must “go in hard” to secure “swift” deals for a centre-back, creative midfielder and a striker in the winter window, according to Noel Whelan.
The former Leeds striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, insisted swooping for players like Sven Botman, 20, will give the Magpies “the best possible chance of staying up”.
According to the Daily Mail (31 December), Newcastle are discussing a £30million deal with Lille for Netherlands Under-21 international Botman.
The report claims the centre-back is open to joining the Magpies in what would be a “marquee signing”.
Whelan insisted Newcastle must splash the cash “very quickly” this month in order to bolster the squad.
“I think right now, they’ve got to go out there and spend money,” he told Football Insider‘s Russell Edge.
“Even if it’s a little bit more than they want to spend in January, they’ve got to bolster the squad.
“They know where the gaps need filling, and it’s been no secret – defensively, they’ve been woeful.
“They need to go into the market, signing a centre-half is a must. Also, a number 10, someone a bit more creative – and a striker, with Callum Wilson out.
“Newcastle need to do their business swiftly and I think they will get three quickly. Go in hard and get the players they really want, like Botman. That will give them the best possible chance of staying up.
“I don’t want to see Newcastle go down, it’s exciting times at the club. But there’s a lot of work to be done, and work that needs to be done very quickly.”
Newcastle are just two points adrift of 17th-place Watford.
The Magpies face the struggling Hertfordshire side next up in league competition.
In other news, Newcastle have been tipped to offer the captaincy to potential January signing after ‘amazing’ Sky update on bid.