By admin 
Newcastle have the opportunity to sign their own James Maddison in the shape of Southampton star Carlos Alcaraz. Eddie Howe is reportedly a fan of the playmaker and could be tempted to make a move for the midfielder whilst the Saints are still playing Championship football.
Their 0-0 draw away at AC Milan in the Champions League on Tuesday night showed signs of promise too and Howe will come away from Italy feeling that his side can truly compete on the European stage in the coming weeks.
Newcastle added quality to their ranks over the course of the summer transfer window in preparation for their European tour, acquiring the services of Sandro Tonali, Harvey Barnes and Valentin Livramento for significant fees. However, the higher powers at St James’ Park already have one eye on the January transfer window and, according to talkSPORT, Saints star Alcaraz has been identified as a target and they are following him closely.
Having lost the race to sign Maddison to Tottenham, Alcaraz is viewed as a direct alternative. He is currently in the Championship and the Argentine’s lack of minutes since the start of the season is drawing the eye – starting just three league matches.
The Magpies are said to have made an enquiry into the availability of the 20-year-old over the summer but did not table a concrete bid, and the race now appears open to see if they can lure him away from St Mary’s in the midseason window, with other clubs also keen.
Alcaraz joined Southampton last season in a deal worth £12million, making an impact upon his arrival with four goals in 18 matches. His brief stint in the English top flight has left the player wanting more and he has made it no secret that he would be keen to return to the Premier League if possible.
Asked by D Sports, earlier this summer about reports linking him with a move, he explained: “At the moment, I’m still playing at the club. I’m not very aware of these things (the speculation). I just play and give my best. (But) I want to stay playing in the Premier League. The reality is that I want to continue learning in the league.”