Newcastle United boss Eddie Howe could face a tough decision if he does land one of his January targets in the final week of the window. Howe has made it clear that he does not want to break up the team spirit in his squad but may have to make a decision on a fringe player.
Last January saw Howe leave Isaac Hayden and Jamal Lewis out of his squad due to injuries. With Jonjo Shelvey and Matt Targett expected to be back for the latter part of the season, Howe could still use both.
That would leave him with a decision to make on the rest of his squad with a number of players barely featuring so far this term. Howe built up praise for Ryan Fraser and Jonjo Shelvey in his last Press conference with the Scotland winger still on board.
READ MORE: Kieran Trippier used Geordie players to understand history around St James' Park
Despite links with Southampton, Howe said of Fraser: "He is not injured, he is training and will just have to keep training hard. He is valued member of the squad. I know Ryan better than anyone and I know what he is capable of. I would love to see him back in a Newcastle shirt."
A back-up plan if Ivan Fresneda turns down Magpies
Real Valladolid right-back Ivan Fresneda has held talks - via his agent with Newcastle - throughout the window. His representatives, Epic Sports of Portugal, have also had interest from Arsenal, Borussia Dortmund and Man United.
Man United now seems unlikely but there have been long discussions on Germany and London. Newcastle still feel that Fresneda would be the ideal understudy to Kieran Trippier moving forward.
But a big decision is due later this week. Newcastle have excellent links with Harrison Ashby's agency Wasserman, who also represent Eddie Howe. Howe admires the West Ham youngster and feels he could be a big part of the future if he decides to swap the Hammers for the Magpies.
Matheus Franca negotiations have been tricky
The Brazilian teenager has been the subject of a £14million discussion but his club Flamengo want more. In fact both Newcastle and Arsenal have been told to double that figure for the attacking midfielder.
The Flamengo youngster is tied down to his club until 2027 and the Brazilian club have stated they have long-term interest from Real Madrid and Lyon, who might be prepared to stump up more in the future.
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