By Wayne Veysey

23rd Nov, 2021 | 12:30pm

Sources: 'Surprise' update on Newcastle January signings plan after Saudi U-turn

Newcastle United are planning to make only loan signings in the January transfer window, Football Insider can exclusively reveal.

The north-east giants have become one of the wealthiest clubs in world football following their recent Saudi-led takeover.

But a United source has told Football Insider that the new owners are ready to take a pragmatic approach in the mid-season window.

The initial plan had been to spend big on permanent signings but there has now been a U-turn in policy from the leaders based in Saudi Arabia and England.

The club’s hierarchy believe it would be better for the club to use the loan market amid fears of spending big money on stars and then getting relegated.

United chiefs are also aware that it will be hard to lure elite-level players to Tyneside in January at a time when they are facing a relegation battle.

The club are laying the groundwork for loan deals or loan-to-buy signings that could be completed at the end of the season if they stay up.

The news will come as a surprise and disappointment to supporters eager to see their club exploit their new-found riches and sign a higher level of player in January.

Football Insider revealed earlier this month (11 November) that manager Eddie Howe’s priority is to recruit two centre-backs and a central midfielder proven at the highest level.

The same positions are still being targeted but there will be a shift in how those deals will be structured.

In other news, senior Newcastle United stars “buzzing” after what pundit has “heard” from Eddie Howe.