Botman shines, Ekitike goal drought and Carlos blow - how Newcastle's January targets are faring

Newcastle United’s successful January transfer window has proven to be their springboard for success that now gives the Magpies a nine-point cushion on the relegation zone.

New signings Kieran Trippier, Chris Wood, Bruno Guimaraes, Matt Targett and Dan Burn have all played their part and fears about returning to the Championship appear a distant memory. However, it was not just those who arrived that dominated the winter headlines on Tyneside.

Sven Botman, Diego Carlos and Hugo Ekitike were three players the Magpies pursued but failed to get over the line in January. The precarious league position Newcastle found themselves in at the time made it hard to attract all of their top targets but the obstacle of potential relegation will be removed should they try again in the summer.

ChronicleLive profiles how each player has fared since the January window to see whether they would be worth a revisit…

Lille have had a poor defence of their Ligue 1 crown but a difficult start to the campaign coincided with Botman missing six games due to a groin injury. Les Dogues have only lost two games since his return in December, including a 5-1 defeat to PSG - a game Botman scored a consolation goal in.

The Dutchman has been at the heart of the Lille backline for their recent six-game unbeaten stretch. What makes this even more impressive is how they have not conceded a goal throughout the run - clear evidence why he was Newcastle’s top target in the window. Amanda Staveley told the Athletic that Botman remains interested in a move but AC Milan are also poised to sign the defender.

Carlos became the plan B once it became evident the Botman deal was off. The Brazilian appeared keen on a Newcastle move but Sevilla president Pepe Castro