Newcastle set for talks over January loan as defender eyes move - Howe has one 'concern'

It's tough to predict what will happen on Tyneside when the January transfer window opens next month.

A young midfielder is clearly wanted, but a move for Dutch sensation Kees Smit will be difficult to pull off, while full-back cover won't be easy to source given any arrival will know they are behind Tino Livramento and Lewis Hall in the pecking order.

As for outgoings, it remains to be seen if an injury-hit Crystal Palace will formalise their interest in Joe Willock, with Will Osula another one to watch after Frankfurt reignited their interest.

On the subject of outgoings, mid-season loans for those struggling for minutes over the first half of 2025/26 will be on the agenda, and it looks like Alex Murphy is seeking a move.

The young Irishman has been training with Eddie Howe's squad all season, but his only outing so far has been a late cameo in our Carabao Cup win over Bradford back in September.

The Mail's Craig Hope reports that Murphy is set for talks with the club over the possibility of leaving on loan last month, with another move to the EFL deemed likely after a spell at Bolton last term.

The issue, however, is Newcastle's lack of cover in full-back positions, especially left-back. Lewis Hall is first choice, but with Dan Burn clearly better at centre-back and Matt Targett on loan with Middlesbrough, a temporary switch for Murphy would only increase our need for cover to arrive.

This is thought to be the one 'concern' Howe holds regarding a loan move for Murphy, meaning we may have to bring one in if he's to depart.

Hopefully full-back cover can arrive, as we need another option to protect Hall and stop Burn from reverting to a position that no longer suits him, not to mention the fact one more addition would give Murphy the chance to gain minutes elsewhere.