Newcastle have reportedly been hit with a major blow as fear grows that Joelinton could miss the rest of the season through injury.
Newcastle midfielder Joelinton could face season-ending surgery for a thigh injury that could see him ruled out for up to four months, according to ESPN.
The 27-year-old suffered a groin problem during the FA Cup third round victory away at rivals Sunderland earlier this month and manager Eddie Howe subsequently stated that the Brazilian midfielder would miss at least six weeks of action.
But according to The Athletic, he may now not play until next campaign, with the five-cap international likely to require surgery on a tendon.
Further assessment of his injury will be carried out by Newcastle doctors, however it is believed the player is set for a lengthy spell on the sidelines.
Joelinton has been a key player under Howe’s tutelage, having converted him from an underperforming striker to a powerful box-to-box midfielder. His upturn in form saw him make his Selecao debut last year, and he has impressed this season – chipping in with three goals and four assists in 23 games in all competitions.
Newcastle are currently in the midst of an injury crisis, with Nick Pope, Joe Willock, Harvey Barnes, Joe Willock, Callum Wilson, Elliot Anderson and Matt Targett all out. In addition to Sandro Tonali’s suspension for the remainder of this season, due to his involvement in illegal betting.
The Magpies currently place 10th in the Premier League following their dramatic 3-2 defeat to Manchester City and have been knocked out of the Champions League at the group stage, finishing bottom of Group F.
There is an understanding that City’s Kalvin Phillips is known to on Howe’s radar, but a deal appears unlikely due to their whopping loan demands.
It remains to be seen whether they will intensify a deal for the English midfielder before the winter transfer window closes.
