Despite World Cup fever gripping the nation, eyes will soon start to turn towards the return of club football and the January transfer window that follows soon after. The winter market can be a tricky one to navigate, especially if you're upsetting the apple cart as Newcastle United are this term.
There is a debate to be had regarding whether Eddie Howe 's side really need to strengthen in the coming months. One on one hand, an extra bit of talent could really aid Newcastle in their European push, while others will argue new additions could upset the near-perfect harmony in the dressing room of late.
Howe admits he is yet to sit down with his in-house transfer committee, with talks scheduled for the coming weeks. The Toon boss did, however, recently admit the Newcastle hierarchy would take a keen interest in the World Cup for scouting purposes.
READ MORE: The Big Newcastle United Forum: Your views on Eddie Howe, January transfers and the ownership
"I don't think we're quite looking at it in that way in terms of the window being a massive help for us," he told BBC Radio 5 Live. "It's early to have those conversations. We haven't had any internally with the club in terms of what direction we go in January - if even at all with Financial Fair Play."
Howe made no secret of Newcastle's late push for talent at the business end of the summer window, with clubs unwilling to lend the Magpies a helping hand with getting loan deals over the line. With the club now sitting in the top three, the possibility big clubs will suddenly be open to dealing with the north east outfit is slim.
There was plenty of early talk regarding a move for Moussa Diaby, the Bayer Leverkusen flyer who has flourished since Xabi Alonso's recent arrival in Germany. After that move failed, James Maddison was the talk of the town and would add a wealth of talent to the Newcastle dressing room if he left Leicester for a move up north.
How much do Newcastle need to spend in January? Have your say on the season so far in our big survey here and below.
Howe will be aware of the fact one or two more bodies would add much-needed depth on Tyneside, in what promises to be a hectic period after the winter break. Fans will also be clamouring for another big-name addition given the transfer track record of the new ownership.
However, there is also the consideration that Newcastle are doing just fine with the squad of players at Howe's disposal at present. The Toon boss has harnessed an incredible feeling in the dressing room, which each player knowing their roles in this side.
There is also the small matter of key players still to return to full fitness. Jonjo Shelvey was an ever-present figure for the Magpies last season and will be knocking on the door for a return to the midfield three after Christmas.
Allan Saint-Maximin is the forgotten man on Tyneside after failing to overcome a number of hamstring issues of late. It is easy to discount his incredible form at the start of the campaign.
Last but by no mens least is the return of Alexander Isak. Signed as a marquee £60m addition just months ago, the Swede really will be like a new signing when he returns to action in December. While fans may be after another attacking option brought in, Howe will be looking to utilise the Real Sociedad man in his system.
How much do Newcastle need to spend in January? Have your say on the season so far in our big survey here and below.
