Although Newcastle United hasn’t added any players during the January transfer window, the team may be able to bring in players on loan from the Saudi Pro League.
Newcastle United may have multiple chances to bolster their roster during the January transfer window.
The transfer window has been open for just more than two weeks, but the Magpies have not expanded their roster. This season, manager Eddie Howe has faced mounting pressure as the team struggles both domestically and in Europe.
Newcastle dropped to 10th position in the Premier League standings on Saturday night after losing to Manchester City. The focus will now be on what can be done in the transfer market to assist the club move up the table, as the team is out of Europe entirely after losing to Barcelona in the Champions League and is 11 points outside of the top four.
The Saudi Pro League is one market segment that Newcastle may choose to enter. A number of Europe’s biggest talents moved to Saudi Arabia last summer, leaving their respective clubs.
Marcelo Brozovic
Marcelo Brozovic was sold by Inter Milan to Al Nassr last summer for an alleged €18 million (£15 million). The 31-year-old was crucial in getting the Serie A team to the Champions League final the previous year.
Given Joelinton’s injury, Newcastle might gain from having more midfield experience. It’s unclear, though, if Brozovic would be interested in making a short-term transfer to the Premier League, but the club should give it some thought.
Gabri Veiga
When Gabri Veiga left Celta Vigo to join Al Ahli last summer, it was somewhat of a surprise. The 21-year-old was strongly linked to a transfer to some of the top clubs in Europe, including a few Premier League teams.
Veiga was considered one of La Liga’s most gifted players prior to his relocation to Saudi Arabia. Even though a permanent agreement would not be inexpensive, Newcastle may consider taking advantage of a loan arrangement if the right opportunity arises.
Jota
Jota, a Portugal international, joined Al Ittihad last summer after leaving Celtic for a reported £25 million. Before relocating to Saudi Arabia, the 24-year-old was connected to a move to the Premier League; the rumours are still circulating several months later.
Jota is reportedly being courted by West Ham this month, according to Sky Sports. It’s unclear if Newcastle will try to enter the competition for the gifted forward before the window closes.
Ruben Neves
Ruben Neves, a former midfielder for Wolves who only signed for Al Hilal last summer, has been linked to a move to Newcastle on multiple occasions. Following the confirmation of Sandro Tonali’s 10-month ban back in October, the speculations got louder.
The Portugal international acknowledged in December that he has no intention of playing in the Premier League again this month. If the team wants to bolster its midfield, Neves might be a loan candidate to consider again.
