By Frank McAvennie

18th Oct, 2023 | 2:46pm

Pundit verdict on Newcastle United signing 'big name' in January - 'knowing Eddie Howe...'

Newcastle fans do not want a big name signing in at the club in January.

Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, former West Ham striker Frank McAvennie insisted Newcastle do not need to bring in any superstars because of how well they have been playing so far.

The Magpies have been flying since their takeover by the Saudi Public Investment fund, finishing their 2022-23 campaign fourth in the Premier League and having already beaten Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League this term.

Despite the takeover, the club have not spent massive amounts on new players and this summer’s most expensive signing was Sandro Tonali, costing £55million.

He joined the club alongside Leicester City’s Harvey Barnes and Southampton’s Tino Livramento.

When asked if Eddie Howe’s side will be eyeing up a big name signing in January to continue their impressive form, McAvennie told Football Insider: “I think so but knowing the workings of the people at Newcastle and knowing Eddie Howe they will just be looking from afar.

“He is not going to bring in a big name just for the sake of it. It will need to be someone who comes in and works, fits into the team and the way the team plays.

“You do not see much of that in football, normally people buy big names and it does not really work.

“I think they might bring in somebody but it won’t be a big name. The fans do not need it, they are playing really well.“

In other news, Amanda Staveley hit with £10m Newcastle United takeover blow by Mike Ashley.