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Newcastle United are believed to be keeping a close eye on Brighton and Hove Albion starlet, Moises Caicedo, according to journalist Fabrizio Romano.

What’s the word?

In his column for Caught Offside, the Italian transfer guru revealed that the 21-year-old is a player that the Magpies are tracking ahead of the January transfer window, albeit with no contact having yet taken place regarding a switch for the Ecuador international.

“On midfielders, they are following Moises Caicedo for sure but at the moment there are no negotiations at all with Newcastle. Many top clubs are following him closely,” Romano stated.

The Tynesiders were previously named as one of the potential suitors for the midfielder back in October should the Seagulls look to cash in, albeit with any move for the former Independiente del Valle man seemingly set to cost in the region of £60m-70m, according to recent reports.

Howe’s own Gerrard

The promising talent been a real standout figure at the Amex since his return from a loan stint in Belgium at the start of the year, with the youngster having initially arrived on the south coast for a bargain fee of just £4.5m back in February 2021.

The current campaign has proven particularly fruitful for the highly-rated “jewel” – as described by Ecuadorian historian Enrico Castro-Montes – as he currently ranks sixth in the division for tackles made (43), having started all 14 games for Roberto De Zerbi’s side so far this season.

The 28-cap gem also notably impressed for his country at the World Cup in recent weeks, having featured in all three groups for the South American nation in Qatar, scoring once in the eventual defeat to Senegal, while also further showcasing his ball-winning prowess by averaging two tackles per game.

Such is Caicedo’s undoubted quality he has even previously been likened to Premier League legend Steven Gerrard in the past by talent scout Jacek Kulig, who categorised the young playmaker as a “box-to-box” midfielder.

That comparison is also no doubt warranted by the Brighton man’s keen eye for a goal, having notably netted a spectacular long-range effort in the win over Manchester United at the tail-end of last season.

Such a moment of magic was also seemingly Gerrard’s trademark – be it the Englishman’s piledriver against Olympiakos or his outrageous FA Cup final strike against West Ham United – during what was a lengthy career at the elite level for both club and country, having scored 186 goals and registered 153 assists in 710 games for the Anfield outfit.

The now-retired maestro – who also scored 21 goals in 113 games at international level – is rightly regarded as one of the finest of his generation in his position, having notably been dubbed “the best midfielder the Premier League has ever seen”, according to pundit Jamie O’Hara.

To be compared to such a talent is high praise indeed as far as Caicedo is concerned, with Newcastle boss Eddie Howe likely to relish having a Gerrard-esque figure in his midfield ranks.

Reported Newcastle United transfer target, Yannick Carrasco, is reportedly open to making a move to St. James’ Park during the upcoming January window. 

The Lowdown: Newcastle linked with Carrasco

The Tyneside club were linked with a move for the winger during the previous summer transfer window.

Since then, the 29-year-old has gone on to make 19 appearances for Atletico Madrid across La Liga and the Champions League, scoring two goals and delivering two assists along the way.

With the January transfer window on the horizon, Newcastle have a potential opportunity to secure a deal for Carrasco.

The Latest: Carrasco open to Newcastle move

According to a recent report from Marca (via Sport Witness), Atletico are open to cashing in on the Belgian in the near future.

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The report also adds that if Newcastle were to reignite their interest in signing Carrasco, he would be open to potentially moving to St. James’ Park.

The Verdict: A great signing for Newcastle

Having appeared in 13 La Liga games this season, the £126k-per-week winger has shown how much of an attacking threat he carries.

For example, Carrasco has made more successful dribbles (17) than any other Atletico player, highlighting how much of a tricky figure he can be to play against.

In addition to that, the Belgian has also racked up the second-highest number of key passes (18) and shot-creating actions (32) at the Spanish club as well the third-highest number of shots at goal (21).

Hailed as “phenomenal” in the past by journalist Dermot Corrigan on Twitter, Carrasco would certainly offer Eddie Howe’s side an extra attacking threat.

Moving forward, with January in mind, if Howe and the Newcastle hierarchy feel that the Atletico star would be a suitable addition to the squad at St. James’ Park, they should definitely explore the possibility of signing the winger and seeing what it would cost them to do so.

Rangers striker Alfredo Morelos has not done enough to earn an improved contract at Ibrox, according to pundit Frank McAvennie. 

The Lowdown: Morelos’ contract situation

As things stand, the Colombian is set to see his contract with Rangers expire at the end of the season.

Earlier this month, it was claimed that Rangers had failed to agree a new contract with Morelos after he demanded £45,000-a-week wages.

With time ticking down until his current contract runs out, one pundit has not shied away from sharing his views on the situation.

The Latest: McAvennie slams Morelos

Speaking to Football Insider, McAvennie had this to say about Morelos and his reported demands over a new contract.

“He has got no chance. He has got to lose about 45 pounds. The guy has not done anything for them to demand those terms. I do not think he is in a position to demand anything.

“I do not think the Rangers fans will be too disappointed if they say no. He was the talisman, he was the main guy and now he is not.

“When he comes in it is a waste of time. He is not going for the balls that he should be. I would say he is playing for a move but I do not know where he is going to go.

“You have got to produce on the park for somebody to buy you. Nobody is going to take him if he is at that fitness level.”

The Verdict: A big decision for Rangers

Having made 13 appearances for Rangers in the SPFL this season, the 26-year-old has found the net four times.

His overall performances have not been particularly impressive though as 15 players at Ibrox currently have higher average match ratings, according to WhoScored.

Despite his occasional usefulness in terms of being a goalscoring option for the team, a recent poll ran by Transfer Tavern revealed that roughly 85% of voters would like to see the club sell Morelos in the upcoming January transfer window.

Taking all of this into account, it seems that Michael Beale and the Rangers hierarchy have a big decision to make over how valuable six months more of Morelos is to their season.

Wolverhampton Wanderers winger Adama Traore ‘will still be leaving’ Molineux, according to transfer insider Dean Jones.

The Lowdown: Traore’s Wolves career

Traore has already left Wolves on one occasion, joining Barcelona on loan in the January transfer window last season, but the Spanish club did not choose to take up the £29m option to buy included in the deal.

The Spaniard returned to Molineux and he has made 13 appearances in the Premier League this season, but there are still question marks over his future.

Julen Lopetegui recently admitted that he is going to try and keep him amid interest from Tottenham as well as across Europe, but Jones does not believe that will be possible.

The Latest: Jones’ comments

Responding to Lopetegui making it clear that he wanted to hold onto the 26-year-old, Jones told GIVEMESPORT:

“I’m not sure how that will end up playing out because I don’t think the overall picture has changed too much for him.

“I think Adama Traore will still be leaving Wolves. I just can’t tell right now if that’s going to be in January or at the end of the season.”

The Verdict: Worth keeping?

Despite once being hailed as ‘fantastic’ for his performances under Nuno Espirito Santo, the speedster has been largely ineffectual in the Premier League this season, scoring just once and providing no assists.

While it is obviously more difficult to craft opportunities when you’re playing in an underperforming side, the former Middlesbrough man has only created one big chance all season, highlighting an inability to make his mark on proceedings.

There is undeniable raw talent there however, and Traore recording 13 goal contributions in the 2019-20 Premier League displays that he is more than capable of being a success in England.

If Lopetegui really believes he can get the best out of the speedster, it would certainly be a blow to see him walk out the door so shortly after the manager arrived.

Manchester United are still eyeing a move for Sevilla goalkeeper Bono this year.

The Lowdown: Forward rumours

Erik ten Hag’s January priority appears to be on bringing in a new forward following Cristiano Ronaldo’s second Old Trafford exit.

Anthony Martial is the club’s only senior centre-forward available to Ten Hag, with United linked with the likes of Marcus Thuram, Joao Felix and Randal Kolo Muani.

However, it seems as if the Glazers are also looking at bolstering the club’s goalkeeping ranks, with United already contacting Sevilla, asking for information on Bono.

The Latest: Bono update

Sports Witness relayed an update from Estadio Deportivo, regarding Bono and Manchester United.

They claimed that a deal has rarely seemed ‘so close to fruition’, with Old Trafford officials expected to explore the goalkeeping market in 2023 due to David de Gea’s contract situation.

The report adds that United are likely to look at a summer swoop with Sevilla open to a potential sale.

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The Verdict: Wise move

United are also short on goalkeepers after Martin Dúbravka was recalled by Newcastle from a season-long loan. De Gea and Tom Heaton are the only senior options, with the pair both out of contract at the end of June.

Therefore, looking at someone like Bono, hailed for his ‘monster’ saves by CBS Sports broadcaster Ives Galarcep in a Europa League performance against Manchester United and called ‘excellent’ by reporter Tanguy Le Seviller, seems to be a smart decision.

The left-footed shot-stopper also recently helped his country to the semi-finals of the World Cup in Qatar, and it looks as if a move will be one to watch.

Leeds United target and FC Luzern midfielder Ardon Jashari has admitted that he has heard recent speculation over a possible January transfer to Elland Road.

The Lowdown: Leeds keen on Jashari

Jesse Marsch has already added to his squad this month with the acquisition of Max Wober from RB Salzburg.

There could be more to come at Elland Road, though, with Sky Sports Germany saying last weekend that Victor Orta and Leeds are vying to sign Jashari alongside the likes of RB Leipzig, Eintracht Frankfurt, Celtic and Napoli.

The left-footed midfielder recently featured at the World Cup for Switzerland and could be available for around €6m-€7m (£5.3m-£6.2m).

The Latest: Jashari’s comments

Swiss outlet Luzerner Zeitung shared comments from Jashari in the last 48 hours. He said that he’s ‘heard about the rumours’ but added that he is currently happy with his current employers and is focused on returning to action.

The 20-year-old said: “I heard about the rumours. There’s no getting around that. But I’m happy now that I can get back on the pitch to train with the team.

“I have now completed two days of training with FCL. For me, the focus is clearly on Luzern, so that I can prepare well and without injury. The timing would have to be right for me to decide to switch now.”

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The Verdict: Possible Klich replacement?

It seems as if Jashari could well be targeted by Leeds officials as a potential replacement for Mateusz Klich. The club confirmed on Wednesday following the 2-2 draw against West Ham that the 32-year-old is leaving Elland Road, with an offer on the table from the MLS.

Jashari can play in two midfield roles and has been described as an ‘exciting’ talent by members of the media, so he could possibly arrive to fill the gap left by Klich.

Arsenal and Edu have held a behind-the-scenes ‘meeting’ regarding a potential move for Atletico Madrid forward Joao Felix, according to journalist Rudy Galetti.

The Lowdown: Chelsea closing in

The Portuguese’s contract at the Metropolitano Stadium isn’t set to expire until 2026, but after reports suggested that he is looking to leave, the club’s chief executive Gil Marin has hinted that his time could be coming to an end.

Premier League sides Manchester United and the Gunners have both been credited with an interest in the 23-year-old, though it’s Chelsea who now appear to be in pole position for his signature, with David Ornstein reporting a ‘verbal agreement’ with the Blues this week.

The Latest: Arsenal talks

Taking to Twitter on Sunday, Galetti revealed that Arsenal have held discussions with Felix’s agent Jorge Mendes regarding a possible switch to the Emirates Stadium.

“Important meeting today between Arsenal and Mendes for Joao Felix. As told, AFC have the internal approval to speed up things with ‘good’ conditions.”

The Verdict: Alongside Mudryk?

Arsenal are reportedly closing in on the signing of Mykhaylo Mudryk from Shakhtar Donetsk, and Felix could an excellent capture to follow in his footsteps and make the move to the capital.

The Viseu native has posted 52 goal contributions in 131 appearances for Atletico and is a versatile player with the ability to operate in three different positions (Transfermarkt).

Felix has been hailed a ‘nightmare’ for defenders by Jacek Kulig, so whilst Chelsea appear to have jumped out in front, we would urge the Gunners to take another run at what could be a title-deciding signing.

Newcastle United still hold an interest in the Brighton & Hove Albion forward Leandro Trossard amid this month’s transfer window.

What’s the latest?

The Belgian’s future on the south coast has been propelled into speculation over the last few days with Sky Sports reporting a growing interest coming from Tottenham Hotspur.

With just six months remaining on his deal, it is believed the Seagulls have covered their asset by triggering a clause in his contract to see his deal extended for another year.

However, it does not appear this is a one-horse race for the 28-year-old with Newcastle having been credited previously with an interest in Trossard.

And speaking on the latest episode of the Talking Transfers podcast, insider Graeme Bailey has suggested that interest has not gone anywhere with Dan Ashworth still keeping tabs on the forward:

(35:20) “We know Newcastle have a long-standing interest via Dan Ashworth. He likes the player, thinks he would fit in well there.”

“It’s a tough one you know, I think Tottenham/Newcastle would be looking at £30m-ish but that’s nowhere near. I think rumours we’re hearing is it’s approaching £40m/£50m. And if that is the case Trossard won’t be leaving.”

An opportunity to strengthen?

Ashworth will be all too familiar with the Belgian forward having worked with him during his time on the south coast but it is apparent the 28-year-old has taken his game to the next level this season.

With seven Premier League goals and three assists already to his name, Trossard is just one more goal away from equalling best return in a Brighton shirt.

This has seen the likes of Spurs and Chelsea show their interest in the player but it seems as if Newcastle have not given up hope of potentially adding the Belgian to their side.

Ashworth spoke on Tuesday night ahead of the Carabao Cup clash about the Toon’s strategy going into this month’s market with the 51-year-old leaning more towards the summer window as the one they plan to act more aggressively in:

“We know what we’d like to do in the summer of 23 for example, then if the right player and the right opportunity comes along and we can do it, then we’ll look at it. But, January is always a difficult window, Eddie knows that and I know that,” he said.

And although Trossard has only been outscored by one Newcastle player this season (Miguel Almiron), the Magpies remain in a strong league position and do not appear to be struggling for goals.

Only four other clubs have scored more goals than Newcastle this season in the Premier League, but Trossard could provide Newcastle with further strength up top with the likes of Allan Saint-Maximin’s future up in the air.

And given their struggles with Callum Wilson and Alexander Isak through injury this season, perhaps adding a player like Trossard could prove a masterstroke from Ashworth.

Interestingly, he broke a record as he became the first player in Premier League history to score the first five goals under a new manager when Roberto De Zerbi took charge at Brighton.

The abuse Anthony Gordon has received from Everton fans will not help convince him to sign a new contract at the club, journalist Dean Jones has claimed.

What’s the word?

The Englishman played an important part in saving Everton from relegation last season, but his form has stuttered in recent months and he has received a lot of criticism from Toffees fans.

This came to a head when he was abused as he was leaving Goodison Park following their defeat to Southampton, and the 21-year-old is currently in contract negotiations with the club.

Speaking to Football FanCast, Jones claimed that the incident with the fans is unlikely to help convince him to stay considering the amount of transfer interest in him.

He said: “The way that they’ve gone about things here, particularly this section of support, it’s just not the way you go about things.

“This is just going beyond where you should in terms of sticking up for what you believe in as a supporter.

“From a Gordon point of view, talks are ongoing about a new contract… obviously, this isn’t going to convince him to sign that.”

A transfer could be best

Given that he is not currently contributing a lot on the pitch, with three goals and zero assists in 18 matches this campaign, if there is still interest in the winger, Everton could take a gamble and sell Gordon.

They rejected sizeable bids, which could have totalled at least £45m from Chelsea in the summer, and whilst it may be unlikely that they receive a similar offer amid his current form, if one of the clubs previously linked with him, such as Newcastle, were to come in for him, a sale could generate some necessary funds.

If Everton can use these funds to then sign two or three players who can strengthen the squad and provide a better output than Gordon in their bid for survival, then it could be a gamble worth taking – though time is clearly running out.

West Ham United are currently in talks with the agent of Roma forward Nicolo Zaniolo, according to reports.

The Lowdown: West Ham making moves…

The Hammers have been making moves so far in this transfer window, having already completed the signing of Danny Ings from Aston Villa, with the striker making his Irons debut against Everton on Saturday.

Ings’ arrival at the London Stadium was swiftly followed by Craig Dawson’s departure to Wolves this morning, and going by recent reports, West Ham supporters can expect David Moyes and co to be even busier before the 31 January deadline.

The Hammers are allegedly still in for Lorient forward Terem Moffi despite their capture of one striker in Ings, and it is believed that they also wish to add a winger to their ranks.

The Latest: West Ham in Zaniolo agent talks…

According to French football journalist Santi Aouna via Twitter, the east Londoners are apparently locked in talks with the agent of Zaniolo.

Roma apparently value their man at around €30m (£26m) including bonuses, with the 23-year-old having also been offered to Paris-Saint Germain with no response. It’s added that no official offer has been made for Zaniolo as of yet.

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The Verdict: Keep pushing?

Despite a questionable injury record, we believe that the Italy international could well do a job for West Ham under Moyes if he stays fit, so they should continue to push for his signature.

As per WhoScored, while arguably not at his best this season having scored just twice, Zaniolo’s attacking record over 2021/22 suggests that he could bring both creativity and a drive going forward.

The 23-year-old attracted more fouls per 90 and completed more successful take-ons than any of his Roma team-mates in Serie A last term, and his age indicates that he could come in as both a long-term acquisition and one who could provide instant quality.

Zaniolo’s versatility is also a plus point, given he is able to play as both a central and wide attacking midfielder, as well as further forward.

Hailed as a ‘really versatile’ player by sections of the media, the 6 foot 3 attacker also once attracted interest from current Champions League holders Real Madrid, according to past reports in the Italian press.