In fairness, he has never indicated that he is anything but happy at St James' Park. While he has been perhaps understandably coy about the future when put on the spot, he has consistently said he is enjoying life on Tyneside and only focused on his football. Talk of him being open to a move to Liverpool is just that right now - merely talk.

PSR rules have weakened the club's ability to bring in fresh talent but they have still managed to build a winning formula

Anthony Elanga has signed for Newcastle United. He is the first major sifning for two years, and perfect for Eddie Howe.

Newcastle United have managed to attract Alexander Isak, Bruno Guimaraes and Sandro Tonali yet former Magpies boss Sam Allardyce thinks it's 'a lot easier' to recruit at West Ham

Watkins’ performances continue to attract suitors. Manchester United, in their own rebuild phase, have shown interest in the striker as they seek additional firepower. Arsenal were also said to have submitted a £40million bid in the January transfer window, though Villa stood firm.