By Pete O'Rourke, Transfer Correspondent

22nd Oct, 2023 | 7:00pm

Sources: Two potential Newcastle United deals collapse

Newcastle United are set to put moves for a young forward and centre-back on the backburner, sources have told Football Insider.

The Magpies, who spent big in the summer transfer window, had planned to add to their squad in both areas in January.

But with Sandro Tonali possibly set to be banned as an investigation continues into alleged betting breaches, Newcastle are now set to focus attention on signing a midfielder instead.

Football Insider revealed on Sunday (22 October) that signing a central midfielder is now the top priority for Eddie Howe’s side in the January transfer window.

Sources have also told Football Insider (21 October) that the Magpies are plotting a January swoop for Man City outcast Kalvin Phillips.

The England international is a long-term target for Newcastle – who considered a move when he was still at boyhood club Leeds United.

Tonali has made 11 appearances for the Magpies since joining from AC Milan during the recent summer window for a reported £55million.

He played 21 minutes in Saturday’s (21 October) 4-0 win over Crystal Palace despite the ongoing investigation.

Newcastle confirmed last week (18 October) that Tonali, 23, is the subject of an investigation by the Italian Prosecutor’s Office and Italian Football Federation (FIGC) in relation to “illegal betting activity”.

Eddie Howe’s side, who are sixth in the Premier League, are next in action against Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League on Wednesday (25 October).

In other news, Newcastle United set for £7m blow if Tonali is banned.