LLambias 'realistic' over transfer dealings

Last Updated: Fri, 12 Oct 2012 11:42
Newcastle%20United

Newcastle chief executive Derek Llambias was warned the fans not to expect big-money signings in the January transfer window.

The Magpies' coffers were boosted this week following the announcement of a new sponsorship deal with payday loan company Wonga.

They were also relatively prudent in the transfer market over the summer, spending just £8million on four players and pulling out of deals for Lille's Mathieu Debuchy and Twente's Douglas because they were too expensive.

Injuries to defenders Fabricio Coloccini and Steven Taylor have led to calls for the club to spend any reserve cash on defensive cover in the January transfer window.

Extra attacking talent may also be needed when Papiss Cisse and Demba Ba jet off for the African Nations Cup.

However, Llambias insists the club's prudent approach to transfer dealings will continue and warned the supporters not to expect big-money deals when the window re-opens.

"We've made it quite clear to everyone. We have 11 positions that are grade A players or Purples, as we call them. Then, under them, we have the players who come in under them to take the positions so the squad gets bigger," he told the Northern Echo.

"Eventually well have 33 players who will be pushing everyone. Where we are we have, in effect, 11 Purples if you count [Vurnon] Anita.

"To bring in another centre-back then you have James Perch, who is doing a fantastic job, [Mike] Williamson, who is doing a fantastic job.

"You can't have two purples per position because the club can't afford it. You have to be realistic."

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