Newcastle United’s transfer focus may change in the final week of the window after injuries to Joelinton and Sandro Tonali left Eddie Howe short in midfield.
Chris Waugh of The Athletic reports that while the club’s priority has been to secure a striker, the double setback could prompt Newcastle to move for another midfielder before the deadline.
Joelinton suffered a groin problem and Tonali picked up a shoulder issue during Monday’s defeat to Liverpool, leaving Howe without two of his starting trio.
Jacob Ramsey, signed from Aston Villa this summer, was signed to replace Sean Longstaff in a backup role, but has battled fitness issues himself. Joe Willock also has a history of injury problems and has missed time already at the start of the season.
At the same time, Bruno Guimaraes may need to shift into a deeper position on the pitch to cover for Tonali’s absence.
With Newcastle facing a packed schedule that includes at least eight Champions League group-stage fixtures, the Premier League, and matches pertaining to two domestic cups, there is concern over the glaring lack of depth in the first-team squad.
Waugh notes that the urgency of Newcastle’s search depends on scan results on Joelinton and Tonali’s issues. Even if those come clear, the club is monitoring options in case short-term loan cover or a permanent signing is required, Waugh reports.