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Newcastle United are believed to be eyeing a new attacking addition in January, according to the latest reports.

What’s the word?

As per journalist Fabrizio Romano – in his Caught Offside column – the Magpies are said to be keen on strengthening Eddie Howe’s forward line with the capture of a new winger in the winter window.

The transfer guru stated in an exciting post: “They just invested record money on Alexander Isak in the summer, so I think the focus in January will be on different kind of players.

“Probably, Newcastle will keep an eye on wingers as they wanted a new signing in that position already in August but they didn’t find the right player.”

This follows recent speculation that the northeast side are tracking Shakhtar Donetsk sensation Mykhaylo Mudryk, as well as Bayer Leverkusen starlet, Moussa Diaby.

Complete Howe’s attack

The St James’ Park outfit are currently enjoying a stunning campaign thus far having moved into contention for a Champions League berth, although the Tynesiders may well still be plotting further additions to bolster those top-four hopes.

The acquisition of another high-quality winger could well prove to be the difference in that battle to secure a place in Europe’s premier competition, with Howe’s men currently somewhat reliant on the dynamic duo of Callum Wilson and Miguel Almiron to deliver the goods.

In the case of Wilson, the Englishman has led the line superbly in the absence of club-record signing, Alexander Isak, having scored six goals and provided two assists in just 11 top-flight outings thus far.

That form – which earned the 30-year-old a place in Gareth Southgate’s Three Lions squad for the upcoming World Cup – has been eclipsed by that man Almiron who has scored eight times already this term, with that tally the sixth-best in the division at present.

Adding an extra body to shoulder the burden on that pair could well be vital in the second half of the campaign, with cult hero Allan Saint-Maximin having only scored once this season after being hampered by injury.

The Frenchman’s replacement in the side – Jacob Murphy – has been lauded for his “consistency” of late, as per The Chronicle’s Lee Clark, although the 27-year-old perhaps lacks the desired quality, having only scored once in 15 league outings so far this season.

As such, Howe could well complete his attack by bringing in a new exciting, option on the flanks – ideally to operate on the left-hand side – with supporters likely hoping to see a high-profile figure arrive through the door when the market re-opens.

Crystal Palace are reportedly one of the sides interested in signing Marcus Thuram in January and the France international could be the ideal man to replace Wilfried Zaha in Patrick Vieira’s side.

According to reports from Italy, Crystal Palace, Aston Villa and Arsenal are all keen on the 25-year-old after his superb performances in the Bundesliga this season.

With Zaha seemingly set to depart Selhurst Park when his current contract expires at the end of the campaign, Vieira will need a new source of goals in his squad, and Thuram could be the ideal man.

The 25-year-old has enjoyed a sensational start to the 2022/23 season, which saw him earn a call-up to Didier Deschamps’ World Cup squad, with 13 goals and three assists to his name in all competitions.

Despite this, recent reports have suggested that he will be available for as little as £8.7m in January, as Monchengladbach look to cash in on their star man before his contract expires in June 2023.

Thuram’s main strengths, according to WhoScored, are his dribbling and finishing, which already marks him out as the man to fill Zaha’s boots when the Palace legend does eventually leave Selhurst Park, as he also shares the exact same strengths.

The Frenchman’s FBRef scouting report also rates him in the top 10th percentile for non-penalty expected goals, dribbling and touches in the attacking penalty area across Europe’s top five leagues, which underlines just how much attacking threat he could add at Selhurst Park.

Although the Eagles currently have talented young attackers such as Eberechi Eze, Michael Olise and Odsonne Edouard at their disposal, none of them possesses the clinical ability of Thuram, as they have just six Premier League goals between them so far this term.

While it might prove tough for Steve Parish to bring the “world-class” attacker – in the words of Wolfsburg sporting director Marcel Schäfer – to south London in January, the Monchengladbach man looks to have all the attributes needed to be a success in the Premier League and could be the ideal man to step up as Palace’s main threat once Zaha does depart.

Manchester United are looking to swoop for reinforcements in January, with boss Erik ten Hag set to bolster the squad across the park and challenge for major silverware across multiple fronts once again. 

What’s the word?

Sky Sports Germany report that Bayer Leverkusen wing-back Jeremie Frimpong is one such player on the Red Devils’ radar, with a move set to materialise as the winter transfer window draws near. 

Reporter Florian Plettenberg took to Twitter to discuss the matter, saying: “He [Frimpong] is aware of United’s interest now. Within MUFC they say he is “very interesting”. Talks after WC. His departure from Leverkusen more than possible 2023.”

With Diogo Dalot currently starring down the lower right flank for United, the board are looking to provide healthy competition, with Frimpong wielder of all the tools required to flourish for the ambitious side. 

Wan-Bissaka upgrade

When Aaron Wan-Bissaka emerged onto the scene with Crystal Palace, fans were captivated by his brilliant defensive arsenal and knack for timing precise, crushing tackles with pace and assurance. 

Since signing for Manchester United, he has found himself edged further away from prominence, now failing to earn minutes under Ten Hag, and Frimpong, rated at £26m, would be an upgrade, suiting the Dutch manager’s positive philosophy. 

Scoring five goals and providing three assists – including two in the Champions League – in 23 outings for Die Werkself this term, Frimpong is quickly asserting his offensive authority for his side.

And as per FBref, the starlet possesses some of the best metrics around; compared to full-backs across Europe’s top five leagues, Frimpong ranks within the top percentile for non-penalty xG and successful dribbles, whilst also ranking within the top 2% for touches in the offensive box and the top 8% for progressive passes received.

If United were to complete the deal, they would have one of the best offensive full-backs in the business, and at just 21 years old, he could develop his abilities and shape him into a formidable player of their making.

Wan-Bissaka, for all his defensive pedigree, simply does not suit United, who look to implement pressured, forward-thinking manoeuvres, swiftly transitioning from defence to attack and getting the offence into dangerous positions. 

The future is bright for this particular “exciting talent”, who is currently included in the Netherlands World Cup, despite not featuring on the pitch thus far. 

Frimpong, on £35k-per-week, has been described as “amazing”, and would certainly boost United in their pursuit of greener pastures in the near future, bringing a kaleidoscope of forward drive and athletic ability to aid the Red Devils’ endeavours.

Aston Villa correspondent Ashley Preece has claimed that the club could move for Crystal Palace forward Wilfried Zaha in the New Year.

The Lowdown: Zaha speculation

The Ivory Coast wizard is out of contract at Selhurst Park at the end of the season and doesn’t appear to be close to signing an extension, despite being verbally offered a pay rise.

Villa Park has been named as a potential destination for the 30-year-old, who has previously been described as “unplayable” by talkSPORT pundit Darren Ambrose.

The Latest: Preece’s comments

Preece shared a notebook for Birmingham Live on Wednesday where he was asked various Villa-related questions.

One of those was transfer related on who Villa could sign in the New Year, to which Preece said: “Keep an eye on Zaha… could be interesting given his contract situation.”

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The Verdict: A-list forward

Unai Emery is after a new A-list attacker in the New Year who can play anywhere across the front three, something that Zaha can do.

The Ivory Coast international has plenty of Premier League experience and enjoyed his best season in front of goal last year, netting 14 times in the top flight.

You’d expect that he still has plenty left in the tank at the highest level, so a cut-price move in January could prove to be a wise one for NSWE to consider – and as Preece mentions, one to watch closely.

Arsenal star Gabriel Jesus is set to miss up to several months due to needing surgery for his knee injury sustained at the World Cup. 

The Lowdown: Gunners talisman 

Many may have questioned Jesus’ decision to depart a serial-winning Manchester City side led by Pep Guardiola, but his switch to Arsenal couldn’t have gone any better.

The Brazilian got off to a flying start in pre-season and has sustained his stellar impact among the frontline across the first half of this season.

Ten goal contributions in the form of five goals and five assists are just a small inclination of his huge impact, with his presence alone so significant in Mikel Arteta’s side.

The Latest: Major blow

According to football guru Fabrizio Romano, Arsenal are set to endure somewhat of a winter nightmare and will be without their star for an initial three months, with that spell potentially going on for ‘several’ months.

Taking to his personal Twitter page to issue the update, Romano said: “Bad news for Arsenal. Gabriel Jesus will need to undergo surgery on the knee he injured at the World Cup, so it’s more serious than expected — confirmed as reported by @mcgrathmike.

“Gabriel could miss several months, could be three months.”

The Verdict: Nightmare

With the World Cup being timed the way it has, injuries were always going to be a concern. 

But, it goes without saying that this is one of the worst things that could have happened for Arteta and co, as they will now have to defend their lead at the pinnacle of the Premier League table without their Brazilian talisman. 

It makes things unnecessarily tough for the Gunners, who may now be forced to dip into the winter market upon its recommencement in January.

Manchester United are interested in making a move for Ghana and Ajax star Mohammed Kudus, according to reliable journalist Andy Mitten.The Lowdown: Kudus shines at World CupThe 2022 World Cup is now done and dusted, with numerous players excelling for their respective countries and enhancing their reputations before the January transfer window opens.One player who really caught the eye was Kudus, who stood out as arguably Ghana’s best player, scoring twice in three appearances and ranking as far and away Whoscored’s highest rated man in the squad.The 22-year-old’s stock has undoubtedly risen in the past month or so and there could be a queue of top clubs looking to snap him up from Ajax.The Latest: United eyeing up moveAccording to The Athletic‘s Mitten, Kudus is on United’s wishlist of potential midfield signings, as Erik ten Hag look to bolster his options in the middle of the park, with Frenkie de Jong and Jude Bellingham also mentioned in the report.The Ghanaian has worked with the Red Devils manager at Ajax recently, meaning any move by the Glazers would come with the gaffer’s approval.[web_stories_embed url=”https://www.footballtransfertavern.com/web-stories/latest-man-utd-news-8/” title=”Latest Man Utd news!” poster=”” width=”360″ height=”600″ align=“none”]The Verdict: Brilliant midfield optionUnited’s midfield has been a weak area for too long, and while the likes of Casemiro and Christian Eriksen have strengthened it, neither represent long-term options.Kudus would do exactly that, coming in as an immediate key figure but also having the long-term potential to mature into one of the best in the Premier League in his position.He showed that at the World Cup, breaking the lines with his passing and 3.3 dribbles per game – journalist John Bennet has described him as a ‘new star’ – and his record of seven goals in 21 caps for Ghana is impressive.

Unai Emery will be hoping to continue his fine start as Aston Villa manager when Liverpool are the visitors to Villa Park this evening.

The Spaniard has won his Premier League in his current role, and with the club embarking on a new era under the 51-year-old, a positive result tonight will further boost confidence going into 2023.

Villa will be without goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez following his World Cup heroics for Argentina, while Diego Carlos and Jacob Ramsey are out injured and will miss the clash.

The key battle could well be in midfield, and with that in mind, Emery should unleash Boubacar Kamara, as he could certainly be the game-changer against Jurgen Klopp’s men this evening.

Steven Gerrard secured the services of the 23-year-old on a free transfer during the summer, and luring the player to England was seen as a major coup for Villa.

Despite missing ten games during the early part of the campaign due to injury and returning just before the World Cup break, the Frenchman has impressed when he has played, averaging a solid rating of 6.87 from Sofascore and showing confidence on the ball by taking 55.6 touches per match.

His defensive abilities have also been on show during his nine league appearances, with the 23-year-old making 3.3 tackles and 1.7 interceptions per match while winning 5.7 duels per game, which works out as a 53% success rate.

His performances over the past year have seen Kamara rank highly compared to positional peers across Europe’s big five leagues, with the midfielder ranking in the top 15% for passes attempted, pass completion success rate, tackles and clearances, as per FBref.

The £26m-rated talent was dubbed Villa’s “best midfielder” on the Claret & Blue podcast following their victory over Everton in August, and the statistics above certainly back up that claim.

Emery will be wary of just how much of a threat Liverpool can pose, with only four teams scoring more than their 28 Premier League goals this term.

However, by unleashing Kamara, Villa could come out on top in the midfield battle, with the Frenchman able to utilise his excellent passing skills and solid defensive ability to nullify the Reds’ midfielders.

Therefore, Emery must unleash the 23-year-old for his first competitive appearance in six weeks, as his midfield skill set could be game-changing for the Villans.

Everton recently began a conquest to tie down some of their better players, with Alex Iwobi and Anthony Gordon having both made big strides in securing long-term deals.

However, the one who seems to be taking longer than fans will have wanted is Jordan Pickford, who has established himself as one of the division’s outstanding shot-stoppers in recent years.

Such is his pedigree now, he has become a mainstay for Gareth Southgate’s England, breaking numerous records with his sensational performances for club and country.

Despite Frank Lampard remaining confident they can match his ambitions, some of the Premier League’s elite continue to be linked with a move for the 28-year-old.

The 44-year-old could be seeking out the heir to his dependable ‘keeper already, however, with reports linking the Toffees with a move for Ajax youngster Charlie Setford.

With the 18-year-old boasting interest from the likes of Borussia Dortmund and Tottenham Hotspur, plenty of Europe’s elite have been put on high alert as he is set to leave on a free transfer at the end of the season.

The teenage sensation is yet to represent the Dutch giants at the senior level but boasts appearances at every level from U17s to U21s despite his youth.

In his eight appearances last season in the Eerste Divisie, he had made 20 saves whilst boasting a 73% pass accuracy.

The fact that he would even average 5.6 accurate long balls per game is indicative of his talents as a fine modern goalkeeper.

His exploits were recognised as the Englishman won Ajax’s prestigious ‘Talent of the Future’ award, which is reserved for the best academy player for that year.

Previous winners of late have been Christian Eriksen, Matthijs de Ligt and Ryan Gravenberch, with the latest being the 6 foot 4 starlet destined for greatness.

Potentially a future starter for the Three Lions, perhaps Kevin Thelwell could replace the current number one with one for the future, should his contract talks continue to falter.

Glasgow Rangers have been handed a significant fitness boost ahead of their Premiership match at Ibrox tonight. 

The Lowdown: Rangers in action

The Gers are back in action as they welcome Motherwell to Ibrox for their third league outings since the campaign resumed earlier this month.

Their last game saw them defeat Ross County 1-0 five days ago, when a goal from John Lundstram was enough to seal victory for Michael Beale’s side as they look to close the gap to their Glasgow arch-rivals at the top of the table.

Looking ahead to tonight’s game, Rangers are set to welcome some big names back into the matchday squad.

The Latest: Rangers handed big boost

As per a report from Glasgow Times, the quartet of Kemar Roofe, Antonio Colak, Allan McGregor and Borna Barisic are all available for tonight’s match.

Speaking to the media ahead of Motherwell’s visit, Beale said: “Roofe and Colak have trained so it’s up to me if I select them or not. It’s fair to say they are not 100 per cent fit because they have been out for a while.

“In Kemar’s case a lot longer than Antonio but they have trained the last two days which is pleasing. It’s a case of whether I need them now or if I can top them up before a big January, a huge January.

“Allan McGregor is fine. He’s just had the sniffles but he’s fine now. We’ve had a few players off with it.”

On Barisic, who was in the Croatia squad which came third at the World Cup, the Rangers boss added:  “Yes he’s been training. He arrived back yesterday. He trained today and looked in a great place.”

The Verdict: Great news for Rangers

With the Gers desperate to pick up as many points as possible to keep them within touching distance of Celtic, having these four players back tonight will be a massive boost for Beale.

As the 42-year-old mentioned, it seems that he has a particularly important decision to make regarding whether or not Roofe or Colak gets the nod to start up front against Motherwell.

Even though they only scored one goal last time out, Rangers still had 17 attempts at goal against Ross County, so it might not be totally necessary to have one of Colak or Roofe in the starting XI this time around.

Either way, Beale will surely be pleased to have these players available again and will certainly have his fingers crossed that they can maintain fitness throughout the remainder of the season.

Celtic head into Monday afternoon’s Old Firm clash with Rangers in an excellent vein of form, with Ange Postecoglou’s side currently on a run of 11 straight victories in the Scottish Premiership, having fallen to defeat just once so far this season.

However, while it is true that the Bhoys currently sit nine points ahead of their Glasgow rivals at the top of the table, the Light Blues appear to have turned something of a corner following the appointment of Michael Beale back in December, having won all four fixtures they have played under the management of the former Queens Park Rangers boss.

As such, the Hoops will undoubtedly have to be at their very best if they are to take all three points back to Parkhead from Ibrox this afternoon – a result that, by pointing Celtic 12 points clear, would almost certainly see them retain their Premiership crown.

So, will Postecoglou make any changes to the side that started the 4-0 demolition of Hibernian last time out?

Here’s how we at Football FanCast think the Celtic starting XI could look, as well as the latest team and injury news…

With Postecoglou revealing in his pre-match press conference that Sead Haksabanovic will be unavailable for the trip across Glasgow due to injury, we predict that the Greek-Australian manager will make just two changes to the side that lined up at Easter Road last Wednesday.

The first of these comes in the back five, with the “unbelievable” – in the words of William Gallas – Josip Juranovic returning to right-back after his World Cup campaign with Croatia, while Joe Hart starts between the sticks and Cameron Carter-Vickers, Carl Starfelt and Greg Taylor retain their starting berths from Hibs.

There is a big call made in the middle of the park, with Matt O’Riley – who has been ever-present for Celtic in the league so far this season – dropping out of the XI, with Reo Hatate moving back into his usual spot in midfield after playing at right-back last time out, while Callum McGregor and Aaron Mooy – who was influential against Hibs – also get the nod.

In attack, there is another big decision to make on the right, with Daizen Maeda keeping his place on the left and Kyogo Furuhashi starting through the middle, while Liel Abada – who has failed to score in his last six league fixtures – makes way for the returning Jota.