Newcastle United could look to strengthen their defense with the signing of an exciting full-back who is attracting interest from several clubs.
Newcastle deal with injury crisis in defense
The 2025/26 season started slowly for Newcastle, who opened the season with victory in the Carabao Cup and their first Champions League football in three years. However, the Magpies have moved up to sixth place in the crowded top flight after winning three of their last Premier League games.
They spent a lot of money in the summer to revitalize their attack, and while Anthony Elanga and Jacob Ramsey have both failed to find consistency since spending big, German forward Nick Waltemade has been an undoubted success.
Eddie Howe is in the middle of the January transfer window and appears to be looking to strengthen his side at the other end of the pitch after a number of injuries have left his defense in tatters.
The manager admitted this week that Fabian Schaal’s injury “might not be as bad as it first looked”, but admitted the experienced defender is struggling on the sidelines.
“He’s obviously injured, but there’s no damage. We think it’s just a ligament injury, but he’s going to see a specialist in the next few days to get a final answer, which will probably be more positive than the initial assessment.”
Meanwhile, with Jamaal Lascelles currently not training due to lack of match fitness and Emil Craft and Dan Byrne battling long-term injuries, it would be no surprise to see PIF look to the winter market to strengthen their ranks.
Newcastle keen to sign Wesley Franca
According to a report from GIVEMESPORT, Newcastle are one of three Premier League teams interested in right-back Wesley Franca.
The Brazilian established himself at Flamengo, joining Roma in the summer of 2025 and quickly becoming a key part of the team under coach Gian Piero Gasperini.
Newcastle appear to be leading the race, although it will be difficult for any deal for Franca to be completed in January, despite both Manchester City and Tottenham Hotspur expressing interest in completing the move.
Flamengo manager and former Chelsea defender Felipe Luis has praised the young defender in the past, saying: “He is the type of player who will decide in June where he wants to play. There is no ceiling for this kid. He is an extraordinary player.”
Newcastle plan move to sign ‘fantastic’ Premier League star after sending scouts
He has been one of the most in-form players in the Premier League recently.
Full-back is certainly an area where Newcastle need depth, with the experienced Kieran Trippier now 35 and past his prime.
Meanwhile, Tino Libramento is a long-time target of Manchester City and it will be essential for the Magpies to have enough talent in place if the England international leaves.
Comfortable in both defensive and attacking phases, Wesley Franca would be a phenomenal addition to Newcastle. Still only 22, his profile would suit the high-intensity brand of football that Newcastle have become known for under Howe’s guidance.
However, it remains to be seen whether an agreement can ultimately be reached between the two clubs.
