Newcastle are interested in signing Southampton attacking midfielder Carlos Alcaraz, according to pundit Carlton Palmer.

Speaking to Football League World, the former England international claimed that the Magpies registered their interest in the Argentine, and they are continuing to track the player ahead of the January transfer window:

“Newcastle United have made an enquiry about Southampton midfielder Carlos Alcaraz in the summer transfer window and have continued to keep tabs on the player. (Eddie) Howe is keen to add to his squad in the January transfer window as they’re in four competitions and there’s a lot of games ahead of them.”

“Alcaraz could leave Southampton in the January transfer window – certainly in the summer – if Southampton are not promoted and he’s not getting game time.”

In the summer, it was reported that the Saints were demanding around £25m for Alcaraz, but that fee could drop if he doesn’t get regular minutes for the Championship club.

Alcaraz is currently not a regular starter

Some Newcastle fans may question why manager Eddie Howe would be keen on signing Alcaraz if he isn’t even playing for a second-tier team. The 20-year-old has not started Southampton’s last four games. There are, however, mitigating circumstances.

Fans have been crying out for Alcaraz to start after four consecutive defeats but manager Russell Martin has spoken out to say that the player is struggling with matters off the pitch.

Pundits have tipped Alcaraz to play for a “Top Six Side”

Last season, when Alcaraz stood out in a Southampton team that was relegated from the Premier League, Owen Hargreaves made this prediction:

“You know what, he’s fabulous. He’ll probably go to a top-six side, Carlos Alcaraz. The only one who had an impact from January was Alcaraz, he is fantastic.”

With the likes of Manchester City, Arsenal, Liverpool, Tottenham, Chelsea and Tottenham not currently linked with the midfielder, Newcastle could swoop in and sign him unchallenged.

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