Newcastle midfielder Joelinton sidelined until May after thigh surgery

Newcastle midfielder Joelinton will miss most of the rest of the season after undergoing thigh surgery, the club have confirmed. 

The Brazilian was forced off during the Magpies' FA Cup victory over rivals Sunderland on January 6. 

Manager Eddie Howe had previously suggested the 27-year-old could be out for around six weeks but the decision to operate now means the player will be sidelined until at least May. 

A statement from the club read: "Newcastle United can confirm that Joelinton has successfully undergone surgery on a thigh injury sustained earlier this month. 

"The midfielder will now commence a period of rehabilitation overseen by the club's medical team and is expected to return to action in May 2024."

The news is a further blow for Howe, who currently has a lengthy injury list to contend with. 

Jacob Murphy, Callum Wilson, Harvey Barnes, Joe Willock, Matt Targett and Nick Pope are among the players currently out of action.

Newcastle have seen interest in Kieran Trippier and Miguel Almiron in the January window, which could hit an already depleted squad.

Bayern Munich have been looking to reunite Trippier with Harry Kane and Eric Dier in the Bundesliga.

And Almiron is on the radar of Saudi Pro League outfit Al-Shabab.

Newcastle are believed to be close to their spending limits and could be forced to offload players to avoid falling foul of financial regulations.