Steve Bruce says Newcastle open to signings in January transfer window
Newcastle head coach said last week he was unsure if he would be able to strengthen his squad in the winter transfer window
Friday 1 November 2019 11:27, UK
Steve Bruce says Newcastle may look to reinforce in the January transfer window after holding talks with the club over potential new signings.
Last week he admitted he was unsure whether he would be given the funds to bolster his squad at St James' Park this winter as the club battle to move away from the relegation zone.
However, Bruce has now confirmed he has since held talks with managing director Lee Charnley and the club will "act", despite spending more than £75m on attacking trio Miguel Almiron, Allan Saint-Maximin and Joelinton since January.
"We're working behind the scenes. Lee [Charnley] is working with that one. January, as I've always said, in my experience it is a very, very difficult month," Bruce said, ahead of facing West Ham on Saturday.
"Yes, if there is somebody out there who can improve us - that is the most crucial thing. If there is somebody out there that can improve us and we can get him, then I'm sure we'll act."
Newcastle have held talks with Strasbourg over a January deal to sign midfielder Ibrahima Sissoko, according to Sky sources.
The club are already looking to hold onto Sean and Matty Longstaff, who remain locked in talks over new contracts at St James' Park.
"I think it took Martin [Dubravka] the best part of three months [to sign], conversations are ongoing with a lot [of players]," said Bruce.
"The two Longstaff brothers is there for everybody to see. That will keep on going. You don't want to lose your best players, that is for sure."
Newcastle are just a point above the drop zone, with shock wins over Tottenham and Manchester United their only league victories this season.
The Tyneside club have managed just six goals in their opening 10 league games and Bruce believes his attacking options are yet to fully adapt to the demands of the English game.
On the training ground it's a difficult ball game, they're flying. When the real ball comes out it's a different story
"Of course it is an issue. It's something we've tried to work on at the training ground. On the training ground it's a difficult ball game, they're flying.
"When the real ball comes out it's a different story. I still think the front three in particular are still settling in.
"I think maybe Almiron has a little bit more time than the other two [Saint-Maximin and Joelinton]. Yes we are aware of it and we have to improve on it, but I think we will get there."
Bruce confirmed summer arrival Andy Carroll was in contention to face his former club West Ham at the London Stadium as he considers changing his strategy of attack.
"That is the conundrum that we face," he added.
"Two solutions I have, either change the system or the personnel. We'll see how we get on tomorrow and that's the conundrum that I face."
