With their sights set on the January transfer window, Newcastle United have reportedly already made an early approach about signing a 2026 target for Eddie Howe.

Newcastle's January transfer targets

Even though the summer transfer window just slammed shut, rumours are already beginning to arrive regarding potential 2026 deals. That should come as no surprise for Newcastle fans, however.

The Magpies endured a tumultuous summer before eventually welcoming the strikers that they so desperately needed, but were forced to take their focus away from other areas. Now, with Nick Woltemade and Yoane Wissa at the club, PIF have the chance to address the other concerns that Howe may have about his squad.

One of those could come in central midfield. As strong as Sandro Tonali, Bruno Guimaraes and Joelinton are together, there may be some concerns about the drop-off in quality when any of those three are missing. And whilst Jacob Ramsey’s arrival may help in that regard, those at St James’ Park are still eyeing improvements.

According to recent reports, Newcastle have set their sights on signing Kobbie Mainoo if the chance arrives in January. The Manchester United midfielder was denied the chance to leave Old Trafford on loan in the summer and was told by Ruben Amorim to fight for his place. Just how long he puts up with doing that is the question that Newcastle and others will have when the winter window arrives.

In a World Cup year, players who find themselves on the fringes of their current sides will be ones to watch. It’s not just Mainoo who’s struggling with that problem. Alongside him, Newcastle are also reportedly eyeing another England international.

Newcastle make approach to sign Gallagher

According to The Boot Room, Newcastle have made an approach to sign Conor Gallagher from Atletico Madrid in January. The Magpies have reportedly made contact asking to be kept informed about the England midfielder, who is growing frustrated by his bit-part role at the Spanish club.

If Atletico Madrid make the former Chelsea man available, then the likes of Manchester United, Newcastle and Crystal Palace are all reportedly ready to race towards his signature. Given that he just started against Liverpool in the Champions League, however, it seems as though Diego Simeone is still keen to find a place for Gallagher in his side.

A player who needs no introduction to English football, the 25-year-old once found himself at the centre of Gareth Southgate’s praise. The former England boss was pleased with how he worked his way back into the Three Lions’ set-up in a similar way to how he could now do so under Thomas Tuchel.

“He performed really well and his mentality was excellent. It is a great example of if you approach it that way, there is always a route back with us and he has managed to achieve that straight away.”

With Newcastle setting their sights on his arrival and the World Cup approaching, there’s no doubt that Gallagher is already one to watch for the January transfer window.