Newcastle have been dealt another transfer setback after midfield target Seko Fofana reiterated his desire to remain with RC Lens this month.
The Magpies' find themselves perilously positioned in the Premier League 's relegation zone and a 1-1 draw with Watford on Saturday has left them languishing in 19th place.
Both manager Eddie Howe and the club's Saudi-backed owners have been keen to add January reinforcements but have seen moves for a number of targets hit snags as the club's lowly league placement appears to have deterred prospective signings.