Eddie Howe: Newcastle eye key signings in January, amid injury crisis

With the January transfer window just over a week away from opening, Howe has acknowledged that the club may need to act in the market, while remaining mindful of long-term stability.

The Magpies' defensive unit has been particularly affected by injuries, leaving Howe with only three senior defenders available for this Saturday's Premier League clash against Chelsea.

The shortage at the back presents an immediate challenge for team selection and preparation, while also raising broader questions about squad depth as the season progresses.

Howe has described the current situation as a crossroads for the club, with Newcastle forced into a careful assessment of their January options.

Although the immediate demands of the Chelsea fixture and the wider injury problems point towards the need for reinforcements, the manager is determined not to pursue short-term solutions that could compromise the club's overall strategy.

Strengthening the squad is viewed as essential to sustaining momentum, particularly with Newcastle still firmly in contention for European qualification. However, Howe has stressed that any January signings must fit the club's long-term planning, both on and off the pitch.

"We have to make the right decisions. We don't want to recruit anyone for a short-term need which ends up being a long-term problem," said Howe.

"We just have to assess the injury situation when it comes to January, which will be with us very quickly."