Six emergency Newcastle United transfer targets after Alexander Isak injury scare

Newcastle United fans will believe they are currently trapped in a never-ending cycle of injury problems.

Eddie Howe’s team has been plagued by injuries this season, and striker Alexander Isak is the latest casualty. The Swedish talisman was hurt during Newcastle’s 3-1 win against Aston Villa on Tuesday night due to a muscle ailment.

Speaking after the game, the Magpies’ manager remained evasive about his probable return date. He told TNT Sports, “We don’t know [when Isak will return].” It does not appear to be a significant problem, but rather a little groin issue. But fingers crossed, we get him back soon.”

When questioned further about any late transactions being announced in the last days of the January transfer window, Howe stated: “I expect to be finished for the window. I believe there is now very little time left to do anything, both inside and outside.

“That is where it stands. I don’t believe we have the ability to accomplish anything. As far as I know, nothing is going to happen right now, but there is still time.

Howe’s final cautious word at the end of his speech reflects what we all know: things can change rapidly in football. Newcastle may decide to add to their forward line to cover for Isak’s injury, even if it is not severe.

Should this be the case, Chronicle Live has compiled a list of six prospective emergency striker targets Howe might pursue between now and Thursday’s transfer deadline.

Barbosa is a wildcard possibility, but his goal-scoring record in Brazil speaks volumes. With 141 goals in 254 games, the 27-year-old may make an impression in the Premier League. He is also in the final year of his contract, so a bargain deal may be available.

The Parisians’ teenage striker is not getting a look at the Parc des Princes, and a loan move has been suggested for him. Ekitike had already been linked with Newcastle, so Howe believes this is a possible transfer

Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting – Bayern Munich

Following the arrival of Harry Kane in Bavaria, Choupo-Moting’s playing time has decreased considerably. The Bundesliga club may be willing to allow him a January loan exit, which could benefit Newcastle.
Gabriel Barbosa – Flamengo

A wildcard option but Barbosa’s goalscoring record in Brazil speaks for itself. With 141 goals in 254 appearances, the 27-year-old could have an impact in the Premier League. He is also into the last year of his contract so a bargain deal could potentially be available.
Hugo Ekitike – PSG
The Parisians’ young striker is not getting a look in at the Parc des Princes and a loan move has been touted for him. Ekitike was linked with Newcastle previously so this could be a move Howe considers viable.
1. Benjamin Sesko – RB Leipzig
  
  Sesko was highly regarded before he switched Red Bull clubs in the summer. The Slovenian is thought to be unhappy with his playing time in Germany and would be open to a January move. It would be unlikely to be cheap though.
2. Roberto Firmino – Al Ahli
  
  Throughout January a host of Premier League clubs have been linked with bringing Firmino back to England. Fulham are the latest team to be in the ‘driving seat’ but there is no doubt the Brazilian could do a job for Newcastle on loan.
3. Serhou Guirassy – Stuttgart
  
  The Guinean striker is enjoying the season of his life in the Bundesliga with 19 goals to his name already. While Stuttgart will be keen to keep their talisman, the lure of the Premier League could entice the centre-forward.