Newcastle manager Eddie Howe is exploring options in the free-agent market to address the club’s current injury crisis, according to sources. Despite his notable achievements in revitalizing the team over the past two years, the demanding style of play has led to a substantial injury toll, leaving nine players unavailable for the upcoming match against Bournemouth.
The sidelined players include Harvey Barnes, Callum Wilson, Matt Targett, Dan Burn, Elliott Anderson, Jacob Murphy, Sven Botman, Alexander Isak, and Javier Manquillo. Of these, only Wilson has a slim chance of playing, but it is unlikely that Howe will risk him against his former club. Additionally, Bruno Guimaraes is suspended, and Sandro Tonali is also unavailable due to a season-ending ban.
With resources stretched thin and the club competing on multiple fronts, the January transfer window emerges as a crucial opportunity for Newcastle to reinforce their squad. Reports suggest a particular focus on the midfield, with Kalvin Phillips and Ruben Neves being strongly considered.
However, an intriguing development reveals that Newcastle has been offered the services of free-agent midfielder Xeka. The 28-year-old Portuguese player is currently without a club after his two-year deal with Rennes was terminated due to an injury-prone stint. Xeka, who had talks with various clubs, was close to joining Celta Vigo and has previously attracted interest from English clubs such as Crystal Palace, West Ham, and Aston Villa. Whether Howe’s recruitment team will opt for an initial trial remains uncertain.
In addition to Xeka, Newcastle has also been presented with the opportunity to assess Mali defender Almamy Toure, who is available on a free transfer after leaving Eintracht Frankfurt. Capable of playing at right-back and in central defense, the 27-year-old has drawn attention from Bayern Munich and Kaiserslautern.
Given their free-agent status, Howe has the flexibility to sign either player outside the transfer window, providing an immediate solution if he deems them beneficial to the squad’s needs.
Howe acknowledged the challenging situation, emphasizing that he doesn’t want to make excuses. Despite the injuries, he believes the team remains competitive. Regarding the injured players, there is a slight hope for Wilson’s involvement, contingent on assessments of his tight hamstring. The upcoming international break is seen as a timely reprieve for Newcastle, with Alexander Isak expected to return for the match against Chelsea on November 25 after working on his fitness during the break.