Newcastle have identified Ruben Neves as a January target after news of Sandro Tonali's 10-month ban for breaching betting rules was confirmed on Thursday.

The Magpies will be without their marquee summer signing until next season — and he will miss the whole of Euro 2024, should Italy qualify for the tournament.

As such, St James' Park chiefs are seeking to find a short-term replacement and are looking at ex-Wolves midfielder Neves, who completed a move to Al-Hilal in June. 

He has been a key figure in the Saudi side's unbeaten start to the league season, featuring in all 10 of their games. 

According to The Sun, Eddie Howe's outfit are exploring a loan deal for the Portugal international.

Signing Neves temporarily would be both cost-effective and sensible, given his previous experience playing in the Premier League.

The 26-year-old moved to Molineux from Porto in 2017 and played a pivotal role in their promotion to the top flight the following year.

Neves then went on to make 177 Premier League appearances and score 21 goals.

He would also bring top-level European experience to the Newcastle engine room having played in the Champions League with Porto and Europa League with Wolves.

In other news

Manchester City star Kevin De Bruyne, 32, has been sounded out by Saudi Pro League officials over a potential move in 2024, report Football Insider.

According to Football Transfers, Arsenal have prioritised the signing of Real Madrid's 23-year-old midfielder Aurelien Tchouameni as they look to find a partner for Declan Rice.

Chelsea could offer Jadon Sancho an escape route from Manchester United, say The Athletic, although Saudi Arabia looks his most likely destination.