SHOCKING: Newcastle United Seal Secret Agreement for Sensational French Wonderkid – January Hijack Imminent That Will Leave Rivals in Panic! You Won’t Believe Who’s Coming to St James’ Park!

Newcastle United are continuing to keep a close eye on their defensive options as the January transfer window approaches, with Eddie Howe’s squad having been stretched thin at the back in recent weeks.

At present, Malick Thiaw, Fabian Schar and Lewis Hall are the only senior defenders fully available, although there is optimism that reinforcements could return sooner rather than later.

The Magpies welcome Crystal Palace to St James’ Park in the Premier League on Sunday, and Howe has offered a positive update on several key players during his pre-match press conference.

Kieran Trippier, Tino Livramento and Sven Botman are all nearing a comeback after spells on the sidelines.

Howe confirmed that both Trippier and Livramento have responded well in training following proper recovery periods and are edging closer to match availability.

Their potential returns would come as a significant boost, particularly given the makeshift solutions Newcastle have had to deploy in their absence.

One such example has been midfielder Lewis Miley, who has been asked to operate out of position at right-back.

Howe once again praised the youngster for his performances, highlighting his display against Burnley as a standout.

While pleased with Miley’s adaptability and contribution, the Newcastle boss admitted the importance of having recognised full-backs back fit, stressing that defensive depth has been a major issue.

Newcastle’s injury situation could also improve in attack, with summer signing Anthony Elanga closing in on a return.

The £55 million winger has missed the last two matches with an unspecified problem but is expected to rejoin training imminently.

Howe confirmed that Botman has already been working with the main group and is expected to be involved around the Palace fixture, while Elanga is only a short step behind.

Despite the gradual easing of their injury concerns, Newcastle’s recent struggles have underlined the need for long-term defensive reinforcements.

Trippier, Jamaal Lascelles and Emil Krafth are all set to be out of contract in June, while Dan Burn and Schar are approaching the latter stages of their careers at 33 and 34 respectively.

As a result, the club’s recruitment team have sharpened their focus on potential additions at the back.

Although January is not traditionally a busy window for Newcastle – their last winter signing was Anthony Gordon’s £45 million move from Everton in 2023 – the club are prepared to act if the right opportunity arises.

According to reports from the Daily Mail, Newcastle are planning an approach for Toulouse defender Dayann Methalie.

The 19-year-old, who is capable of playing both at left-back and centre-back, has made 16 Ligue 1 appearances this season and is highly regarded in France.

Methalie recently underwent surgery on a minor knee issue, but sources suggest he is expected to return later this month.

The France Under-21 international is seen as a player with significant potential and could represent a longer-term investment.

Speaking recently about the January transfer window, Howe emphasised that Newcastle’s plans will largely depend on how their injury situation develops.

He explained that if the squad returns to full fitness, it would be difficult to find meaningful improvements mid-season.

However, any further setbacks, particularly in defence amid a demanding January schedule, could force the club to reassess and move decisively in the market.