Exclusive: Newcastle United’s Two-Man January Signing Plan Revealed After ‘Huge’ Blow

Newcastle United are plotting a pragmatic two-man signing strategy in the January 2026 transfer window following a series of defensive injuries that have left manager Eddie Howe short at the back.[1][4]

Fabian Schar's horrific injury—suffered when Leeds' Dominic Calvert-Lewin landed awkwardly on him during a 4-3 win at St James' Park—has compounded woes, joining Dan Burn and Tino Livramento in the treatment room. Jamaal Lascelles is also unavailable, forcing Malick Thiaw and Sven Botman into heavy rotation amid a packed schedule.[4]

With the window halfway through (closing February 2 at 7pm), Newcastle have completed five outgoing deals but no incomings. Loans include Antonito Cordero to Cadiz, Joe Brayson to Morpeth Town, Harrison Ashby and Joe White to Bradford City; Ben Parkinson was sold to Falkirk. Net spend: £0m.[1][2]

Howe's two-pronged plan targets young prospects with long-term potential, not expensive short-term fixes. Any new arrival would bed in gradually, with immediate games as a bonus. Kieran Trippier is back, Burn imminent, and Lewis Miley covering admirably—but PSR rules and high costs rule out top Premier League stars for Champions League quality.[1][4]

Rumours swirl: interest in Wolves' Mateus Mane, Burnley GK James Trafford, or Serie A defenders. Outgoings loom with William Osula to Eintracht Frankfurt and Joelinton linked for £50m. Arsenal eye Livramento, but funds are tight post-summer spree.[2][6]

Howe cautioned: "Signing the wrong player means carrying it for years. Are the right ones available?" Fans must temper expectations amid a "fatally flawed" window reality.[1][4]

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