Newcastle United are reportedly considering a January approach for Everton midfielder Amadou Onana.
Eddie Howe’s side are said to be interested in securing midfield cover as they prepare for the potential suspension faced by £55m summer arrival Sandro Tonali.
The Italian international is facing a lengthy ban from football and is currently under investigation for allegations of betting infringements during his time at AC Milan.
Indeed, the absence of such a key player has prompted the Magpies to look at midfield options during the January transfer window, with Everton’s Onana amongst them.
That is according to inews, who report that the Belgian international is one of three potential targets alongside Spurs’ Eric Dier and Manchester City’s Kalvin Phillips.
The report states that a loan deal for Phillips would be the preferred option for the north east club, though a deal could prove complicated should Pep Guardiola’s side consider Newcastle a potential rival for silverware.
Everton look likely to lose Onana but could replace him with Phillips
The Toffees have also been linked with a move for Phillips in January after the former Leeds United midfielder’s difficulties adapting to life at Man City.
With the European Championships next summer, it seems likely that the 27-year-old will be eager to play regular football between now and then to guarantee a place in Gareth Southgate’s squad.
There is no doubt that Phillips would improve Sean Dyche’s options, and he would be a smart addition to the squad, whether Onana remains at the club or not.
However, should the £33m Belgian international make the move to St James’ Park, Phillips could slot into the Blues’ midfield as his natural replacement.
It seems as if the club will sell Onana as soon as a reasonable offer is made, though Newcastle might prefer to explore loan options in Tonali’s absence rather than spend what would be a substantial fee on a temporary replacement.