Newcastle identify potential Joelinton replacements - The Athletic

The Athletic have released a Saturday morning update on Newcastle's hunt for midfielder reinforcements following confirmation that Joelinton is facing season-ending surgery.

They report that we are now targeting an 'athletic, powerful No 8' over a defensive midfielder, with the injury to Joelinton and ongoing uncertainty over his contract situation leaving us in need of a short term replacement at the very least.

Chris Waugh mentions four players in the piece; Everton's Amadou Onana, Atalanta's Ederson, Bournemouth's Philip Billing and Man Utd' Scott McTominay.

It's thought Ederson is more likely to be pursued this summer - Steve Nickson is a huge admirer but Eddie Howe is reluctant to sign overseas players mid-season - while Onana has been 'watched extensively' and his Premier League experience is valued.

Billing is mentioned and may be a 'backup' option to beef up our squad, while McTominay has been 'tracked long-term' by the club.

It's thought loan-to-buy deals are favourable to help manage our FFP/PSR constraints, but a chunk of our summer budget could be brought forward if it allows us to make the right signing at the right price this month.

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