Sources: Newcastle plot January defender loan signing
Newcastle United are keen to loan a centre-back this month to ease the pressure on their injury-hit rearguard, sources have told Football Insider.
The Magpies have been rocked by several injuries to key players up and down the pitch in recent weeks, but Netherlands international Sven Botman has been one of the biggest absences for Eddie Howe’s side.
Botman has returned to action to partner Fabian Schar once again, but backup star Jamaal Lascelles is now on the treatment table.
Newcastle want to rectify their lack of numbers in the heart of defence by dipping into the loan market this month.
Long-term, the Magpies are planning another mega-money swoop – much like the reported £35million deal to bring Botman to St James’ Park in 2022.
Football Insider revealed on Tuesday (2 January) that Newcastle and their recruitment staff have made contact with the entourage of Sporting CP defender Ousmane Diomande ahead of a potential summer deal.
It is believed Arsenal are also interested in the centre-back – who has a release clause worth £70million in his contract with the Portuguese giants.
Both clubs cannot sanction a deal for Diomande in the winter window with Financial Fair Play restrictions preventing another splurge from either side.
Newcastle are set to turn to the loan market in the meantime to resolve their lack of numbers – with Lascelles, Kieran Trippier and Matt Targett among those out.
Howe’s side also want a temporary arrival in central midfield in the wake of Sandro Tonali’s ban – which runs for the rest of the 2023-24 campaign and into next season.
The Magpies sit ninth in the Premier League after their 4-2 away loss at Liverpool on Monday (1 January).
In other news, Newcastle United ready formal move for Championship sensation.