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Newcastle could be ready to splash the cash in January with Lille defender Sven Botman and Manchester United midfielder Jesse Lingard their top transfer targets, according to reports.
The upcoming transfer window will be the first under the club’s new ownership, with new manager Eddie Howe likely to be given significant funds to spend.
Newcastle are second bottom of the Premier League and at real risk of relegation after picking up just one win from their 16 league games so far this season.
The Magpies have already conceded 34 goals, the most of any side in the division, and Howe will be keen to sign defensive reinforcements next month.
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According to The Guardian, Newcastle have identified Netherlands U21 international Botman as their first-choice centre-back signing.
Botman, 21, has been with Lille since 2020 and was part of the squad that won the Ligue 1 title last season.
AC Milan are also said to be keen on the Dutch defender, but Lille could be reluctant to sell midway through the season.
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The Guardian claim Newcastle will have to pay at least £30m if they want to sign Botman, while Lille could potentially demand up to £40m.
The report also claims Howe is looking to sign Lingard from United, either on loan or a permanent deal.
Lingard revived his career during an impressive spell at West Ham last season, in which he scored nine goals in 16 games.
However, the 28-year-old has found first-team opportunities hard to come by since returning to Old Trafford and is yet to start a Premier League game this season.
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West Ham are also interested in bringing Lingard back to the London Stadium on a permanent deal, as they continue their fight for a Champions League place.
Last month, Howe admitted Newcastle may struggle to attract signings given their league position.
Responding to talkSPORT pundit Gabby Agbonlahor’s claim that “players don’t want to live in Newcastle”, Howe said: “I’ve heard from everyone how nice the area is to live in.
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“We’ll have no problem attracting players to Newcastle for a whole host of reasons. I don’t think that’s going to be an issue.
“What is an issue is our league position in attracting players in January.
“It’s very difficult to make any promises in the sense that we will definitely spend money and sign players.
“You have to attract players, they have to want to come and they have to be the right players to improve the squad.
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“That is why January is an incredibly difficult window to recruit players in, especially when your league position is difficult.”
Featured Image Credit: PA ImagesTopics: Newcastle United, Eddie Howe, Transfers, Football, Premier League
