Newcastle desperately need additions

Newcastle United are in a spot of bother, to put it mildly.

With just one win all season, an upturn in performances since new boss Eddie Howe came in has not translated to better results for the Magpies, who sit two points away from safety, and a further 7 behind 16th placed Leeds United.

They need additions to their side as soon as possible, with the new owners keen to see their acquisition avoid relegation to the Championship in their first year in charge.

And, the Tyneside outfit look set to make former Tottenham man Kieran Trippier their first signing of the window, with a deal edging closer to completion.

However, they have been dealt a significant blow elsewhere in their attempts to strengthen.

Lille star not for sale

As they aimed to strengthen their defence, Dutch youngster Sven Botman was atop their list. Both good enough for now, and to be able to withstand the continued improvement of the side in the coming years, he was thought to be an integral part of the transfer puzzle.

However, according to the Telegraph, the Magpies have been dealt a major blow in this hunt, as Lille have informed them that their young defender is not for sale in January.

The report claims:

“The reigning French champions have reached the knockout stages of the Champions League and have informed the Newcastle hierarchy that they are wasting their time trying to persuade them to sell.”

Can Newcastle offer enough money to change this stance, or will Howe and co. have to look elsewhere?

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