Eddie Howe warns Newcastle must sell before buying in January transfer window.
Sean Longstaff is among the players Newcastle United might part ways with during the January transfer window after triggering his contract extension earlier this month.
Despite having significant funds available in the summer for a potential £60 million deal for Marc Guehi, the upcoming transfer window is expected to be quiet unless Newcastle manages to generate funds through player sales. While money was earmarked for Guehi, it was always contingent on selling players, and such a high-value purchase would have heightened the need for January sales.
With the 2024-25 season nearing its midpoint, Newcastle has struggled to find consistency. Eddie Howe has acknowledged the need for fresh additions to avoid stagnation but has highlighted the challenges of balancing transfer ambitions with the Premier League’s Profitability and Sustainability Rules. Over the past three years, Newcastle has spent over £400 million on new signings while bringing in little from player sales, creating a pressing need to offload talent to reinvest in the squad.
Impact of Callum Wilson’s Injury
Callum Wilson’s two-month injury has complicated Newcastle’s January plans. Previously, the club might have considered selling the striker due to his limited playing time and contract situation. However, Howe has deemed it almost “impossible” to replace Wilson during the January window, given the financial constraints.
Newcastle remains optimistic about the progress of Will Osula, a £10 million summer signing, as a backup for Alexander Isak. Although the 21-year-old has played just 27 minutes of Premier League football this season, Howe is pleased with his development.
Reflecting on the January transfer outlook, Howe stated: “It’s about what you can do, not what you want to do. I wouldn’t expect us to be too active in the market unless we trade players. If we don’t, I’d expect us to remain quiet.”
Potential Outgoings in January
Kieran Trippier and Miguel Almirón have been linked with moves away since last January. Newcastle previously rejected a £13 million bid from Bayern Munich for Trippier, while Almirón declined a Saudi Arabian transfer opportunity.
Sean Longstaff, who recently made his 200th appearance for Newcastle, could also be sold next month. Though his contract extension until June 2026 has yet to be officially announced, Longstaff’s academy background makes him a valuable asset in Premier League Profitability and Sustainability calculations, as his sale would count as “pure profit.”
The 27-year-old is not guaranteed a starting spot under Howe, and the club is open to offers, albeit reluctantly. Valued at around £15 million, Longstaff has previously attracted interest from Leicester City and Leeds United.
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