Newcastle United have endured a mixed start to the Premier League campaign and could now become embroiled in a transfer battle with Real Madrid to sign a rising star of European football.
Newcastle United keen to reinforce in January
It goes without saying, but Newcastle have underperformed this campaign and find themselves in the bottom half at nearly the midway point of the season under Eddie Howe.
Despite their improved endeavours in the second half of their Boxing Day clash at Old Trafford, the Magpies' defeat to Manchester United extended their winless league run to three matches as they prepare to close the year out against Burnley in midweek.
Eddie-Howe
With poor form comes murmurs of changing the guard, and Newcastle's Joelinton has become the subject of interest from Saudi Pro League clubs and may well make way for new arrivals in January or beyond.
Leicester City star Jeremy Monga is a target for the Geordies as they build for the future. Albeit, supporters will also want a larger focus on additions for the here and now alongside signings that roadmap a positive few years to come under PIF's hold at St James' Park.
The second half of the season will come into focus as Newcastle look to move up the Premier League table. Champions League football and the chance to reach another EFL Cup final offer reasons for optimism outside the top-flight picture, so there is plenty to play for in a campaign that still promises to offer so much.
Results need to improve domestically, and the January window may be the ideal avenue to recruit some fresh faces to reignite Howe's side, something he appears determined to do following latest developments.
Newcastle fighting Real Madrid to sign AZ Alkmaar star Kees Smit
According to talkSPORT, Newcastle are fighting Real Madrid to sign AZ Alkmaar midfielder Kees Smit in a potential £22 million deal that would signify a record sale for the Eredivisie outfit.
Crystal Palace are also keen on the 19-year-old, who has registered two goals and five assists in 27 appearances across all competitions in 2025/26.
Anthony Gordon for Newcastle Related
[Newcastle could sign "generational talent" to steal Gordon's #10 shirt](https://www.footballfancast.com/newcastle-could-sign-gordon-upgrade-jeremy-monga/ "Newcastle could sign "generational talent" to steal Gordon's #10 shirt")
Newcastle's star winger is enduring another tough season in the Premier League.
Likened to Barcelona star Pedri by Ronald Koeman, Newcastle and European heavyweights Madrid are believed to have the most advanced interest in Smit at this point, albeit that can all change very soon when the window officially opens for business.
Having previously admitted he will seek a new career challenge before 2028, per the outlet, the Netherlands Under-21 international is viewed as a rising star in his homeland and word over his consistent displays is now spreading throughout the continent.
Should Joelinton or one of his teammates depart, Smit could be an ideal long-term solution for years to come and has plenty of potential to develop into a leading star in the English top-flight, while also fitting the bracket of retaining a modest price-tag.