Newcastle United are reportedly exploring the possibility of a January swoop for Bournemouth midfielder Philip Billing.
According to 90 min, Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe is prepared to raid his former club Bournemouth in an attempt to sign Philip Billing. The club has already launched an enquiry regarding the 25-year-old midfielder, exploring the possibility of acquiring his services in the upcoming January transfer window.
Howe is already eyeing a reunion with another Bournemouth star in Lloyd Kelly. But his interest in Billing suggests that the Englishman is keen on shoring up his options in the midfield department. Howe had previously hinted he could build the team around Jonjo Shelvey, but it appears the Newcastle United manager is looking for potential upgrades over Jeff Hendrick and Sean Longstaff.
Newcastle United have been linked with a host of top quality players across Europe this season after being taken over by the Saudi Arabia-backed consortium. However, given their precarious position on the league table, they have prioritised targets that are willing to help out their survival campaign and potentially help the team rebuild in the Championship in case they do get relegated.
Billing fits the bill well, having established himself as one of Championship’s top midfielders since his €15 million move to Bournemouth in 2019. Although the youngster was involved in the Cherries’ relegation campaign, he has made a solid impression in the second division, thanks to his work rate and tenacity.
The 25-year-old has 100 competitive appearances to his name at Bournemouth, while his contributions this season have helped his team emerge as favourites to seal direct promotion. But it appears Billing’s spell at Vitality Stadium might not last for long, with Howe keen on bringing him back under his wing at Newcastle United.
However, the Magpies have no shortage of alternatives and are already considering other options in the market. They have been recently linked with a move for Manchester United outcast Nemanja Matic, who is a proven Premier League veteran and may offer more stability in the Newcastle United midfield.
In addition to Matic, Newcastle United are reportedly in contention to sign Tottenham Hotspur superstar Dele Alli as the club continues to scour the market for potential reinforcements in the midfield department.
