Newcastle United are still determined to land two players this month, the Athletic say.
Newcastle boss Steve Bruce has been given a very limited budget, but the Magpies are exploring the loan market as they look to inject some quality into their squad.
Newcastle have struggled badly for wins recently, with Bruce’s side now falling right into the thick of a relegation battle.
And the need for fresh blood seems obvious, with many of the Magpies recent performances looking devoid of energy and ideas.
Bruce apparently really wants to sign an attacking midfielder, with Newcastle prioritising adding more creativity to their group.
Whether that will be possible before the deadline remains to be seen, but Newcastle are said to be hopeful of securing two new players yet.
The identity of the playmaking target that Newcastle are searching for is not currently clear.
The Tynesiders have been linked with Jesse Lingard, but he appears set to move to West Ham United.
Newcastle have also recently been linked with Hamza Choudhury at Leicester City, with the Telegraph saying that they are in a strong position to sign him, but he is a more defensive minded midfielder.
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