Newcastle United supporters will be hoping the New Year signals an upturn in fortunes at St James’ Park, with Eddie Howe already labelling January as a “season-defining” period amid a relentless run of difficult fixtures.
Alongside navigating a demanding schedule, Howe will be eager for backing from the Saudi PIF in what is shaping up to be another frantic transfer window. With the market only recently open, speculation around potential arrivals on Tyneside is already gathering pace.
Newcastle line up move for Ligue 1 defender
The early days of the window have produced a steady stream of links. AZ Alkmaar midfielder Kees Smit continues to be mentioned, even attracting reported interest from Real Madrid, while Manchester City prospect Oscar Bobb is also said to be under consideration as Newcastle look to strengthen across the pitch.
Defensive reinforcements are also firmly on the agenda. According to Daily Mail journalist Craig Hope, Newcastle are expected to make an approach this month for Toulouse left-back Dayann Methalie. The 19-year-old is highly rated by those at St James’ Park, with his composure in possession and versatility—capable of operating as a left-sided centre-back—making him an appealing option.
With concerns over depth on the left side of defence, particularly given Lewis Hall’s injury issues, Methalie is viewed as a smart and forward-thinking target. There is even a sense he could represent another Malick Thiaw-style signing—one focused as much on long-term value as immediate impact.
Why Methalie could become “Thiaw 2.0”
Thiaw himself arrived as a somewhat understated acquisition from AC Milan last summer, having recorded seven clean sheets in 19 Serie A starts the previous season. While there was an expectation he might need time to settle, the German defender has adapted seamlessly to Premier League football.
The 6ft 4in centre-back has quickly established himself as a commanding presence, producing dominant performances and even shutting down Erling Haaland during Newcastle’s 2-1 victory in November. His numbers back that up too, averaging close to five duels won per league match while maintaining a pass completion rate of around 90 percent. Those displays have prompted captain Bruno Guimarães to describe him as “the future of the club”.
Still only 24, Thiaw appears destined to be a defensive cornerstone for years to come. Methalie could follow a similar pathway. The Toulouse youngster turns 20 in February and would represent another investment in youth, with the potential to grow alongside Thiaw as part of a long-term defensive partnership.
For Newcastle, that blend of immediate solidity and future planning is exactly what this January window could be about.
Leave a Reply