NEWCASTLE manager Eddie Howe has reportedly added Manchester City midfielder Kalvin Phillips to his transfer shortlist.
The Magpies are keen to bolster their midfield in the wake of Sandro Tonali’s 10-month ban from football.
Tonali was hit with the suspension last month after being found guilty of illegal betting.
He is set to be unavailable until August as a result.
Howe has now established a list of three midfield targets for the January transfer window as he looks to fill the void left by Tonali.
And according to Football Insider, former Leeds star Phillips is at the top of his wishlist.
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Phillips joined Man City from Leeds in a £45million transfer last summer, but he has been limited to just 28 appearances across all competitions.
Pep Guardiola is now willing to let him leave in January if the price is right.
Newcastle are also said to be exploring the Saudi Pro League for midfield reinforcements.
Former Wolves star Ruben Neves is among the targets.
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The Portugal international joined Al-Hilal in a £47m transfer earlier this year, but Howe wants to bring him back to the Premier League.
Gabri Veiga could also emerge as a top target.
The 21-year-old swapped Celta Vigo for Al-Ahli in August despite being targeted by some of Europe’s biggest clubs, including Arsenal and Chelsea.
His decision to move to Saudi Arabia prompted criticism from Real Madrid icon Toni Kroos, who branded it “embarrassing”.
Newcastle have also been linked with in-form Bayer Leverkusen striker Victor Boniface.
The Magpies currently sit sixth in the Premier League table, seven points behind leaders Man City.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
