Newcastle are desperate to get anyone they think will help them avoid the drop. Paying £25m for Wood is as much about weakening a competitor as it is strengthening their own squad.

I think even if they do manage to bring in a load of expensive new players this month, it's going to be very difficult to turn a bunch of new individuals into a cohesive footballing team in time to avoid relegation. And players who Newcastle bid for will know that. I can't see why top players would want to join them.