Newcastle United are likely to be relying on loan signings in the January window.
The Magpies go into the winter window - which opens in three days - knowing they are still facing a slog to reach 40 points but currently sitting a comfortable distance from the drop zone.
United are likely to be without Allan Saint-Maximin and Ryan Fraser in the coming week as Bruce tries to manage his squad through the hectic winter schedule.
Owner Mike Ashley has not ruled out any spending money being released, but the feeling at United is the current squad is capable and bringing in loan deals and adding January spending money to next summer’s recruitment fund could be the way forward.
This was the case last winter when United resisted the chance to spend and used around £35million in the summer to buy Callum Wilson and Jamal Lewis.
Ashley is on a winter break at the moment but a list of loan options, including Man United’s Brandon Williams, is being drawn up.
Newcastle would also have to make space in their 25-man squad but are ready to listen to offers for Christian Atsu and Rolando Aarons.
The fact the Magpies are losing millions in gate revenue and match day custom - along with corporate box income - has also been factored into Newcastle’s January plans.
