**Eddie Howe wants two strong options for every position on the pitch at Newcastle United, and while the squad is stronger than ever right now, we're still a way off realising that dream.**
One area that is strong in terms of a starting lineup but lacking depth is the midfield.
Newcastle has one of the best midfield trios in the Premier League in Sandro Tonali, Bruno Guimaraes and Joelinton, but while there's adequate backup in the form of Jacob Ramsey, Lewis Miley and Joe Willock, none of those three are really at the standards of the first-team trio. Ramsey may prove himself to be up there eventually, but it's early days.
Lewis Miley can force his way into that category at some point, but he's still got a fair bit to learn, so in the short term, Newcastle could do with another body or two through the door.
Elliot Anderson is one option to beef up Newcastle's midfield but Oihan Sancet is on their radar too
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Bringing Elliot Anderson back is a popular option that fans would love to see, but Newcastle are keeping their options open, with [The Chronicle reporting](https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/newcastle-united-eye-69m-release-32698715) that the Magpies have their eyes on Athletic Bilbao's Oihan Sancet.
Sancet is tied down to a contract with Bilbao until 2032, but there's a £69 million release clause in his contract that Newcastle could be tempted to activate.
The 25-year-old bagged 15 goals in 29 La Liga outings last season and is already off the mark this season after six appearances.
Newcastle fans will get a closer look at Sancet in November
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The Spanish midfielder is thought to be Premier League-ready and has what it takes to push the likes of Newcastle's midfield trio for a place in the starting lineup.
Newcastle aren't likely to make a move in the January transfer window, but it is expected that the Magpies are likely to try and sell Joe Willock next summer, and Sancet could be his replacement.
It could be one to keep an eye on to see how he performs this season, and Newcastle will get a close-up look at him next month when Athletic Bilbao come to St James' Park in the Champions League.