Sporting director Paul Mitchell has Eddie Howe’s January wishlist in hand, but it is his responsibility to ensure Newcastle has the best chance of securing European football after narrowly missing out last season.
Mitchell must navigate PSR (Profitability and Sustainability Regulations), as it is expected that Newcastle will need to offload players before making significant signings.
The club managed to avoid a points deduction for the season by selling Elliot Anderson and Yankuba Minteh, a decision that displeased Howe.
However, there are several players who could leave in January. MLS club Charlotte FC is interested in Miguel Almiron, who came close to leaving in the summer.
Newcastle is reportedly asking for £8 million for Almiron, who also has loan interest from Premier League clubs.
Martin Dubravka might also depart, with a potential move to the Saudi Pro League in the works. The 35-year-old has started the last three games for Newcastle, keeping two clean sheets.
Additionally, one of Newcastle’s previous summer targets, Benfica defender Antonio Silva, is reportedly unhappy at his current club. Silva was linked to Newcastle in 2023, but a move was hindered by his £85 million price tag.
Silva, who has made just six appearances in Liga Portugal this season, is said to be frustrated with his reduced playing time.
Newcastle remains interested, and it’s believed they made a €50 million (£41.4 million) offer in the summer, which was rejected by Benfica.
Juventus is also monitoring the situation, though a move to Italy appears unlikely for now. Silva is seen by Newcastle as an alternative to Marc Guehi, who stayed at Crystal Palace despite multiple bids from the Magpies.
Despite limited playing time, Silva has impressed with his performances, averaging 74 passes per game with a 91.4% completion rate.
His ability to complete six long balls per game, just shy of Fabian Schar’s 10, makes him an ideal fit for Howe’s system. As Schar is now 33, Silva could be a future replacement for the Swiss international, who has been a key player in Howe’s squad this season.
