The clock is ticking for Newcastle United to complete their January transfer business. Eddie Howe's side have now got less than 80 hours before the window closes and must finalise any potential incomings or outgoings ahead of Monday's 11pm deadline.

So far, the Magpies have had a quiet month. They haven't signed anyone, but have sanctioned the departures of four players. Alex Murphy has joined Bolton Wanderers and Isaac Hayden has moved to Portsmouth - both on loan - while Miguel Almiron made the £8million switch back to Atlanta United on Thursday. Lloyd Kelly is now on his way to Juventus to complete a £20m deal.

How does this effect Newcastle's defensive department? Well, Matt Targett and Kieran Trippier are among those that have been linked with a departure from Tyneside this month. Watford were said to be interested in Targett, while Galatasaray have been interested in Trippier.

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Piero Hincapie is someone that has been linked with a move to the Magpies in the past and he would be the 'dream' replacement and late January addition. The Bayer Leverkusen centre-back, who can also fill in at left-back, has just turned 23 and is one of the best defenders in the Bundesliga.

The Ecuador international played 43 times for Xabi Alonso's invincible team last season and is proven against Europe's elite after impressing in the Champions League so far this season. Leverkusen are one of the eight teams that have secured automatic qualification for the round of 16.

It has been reported that Hincapie is valued at a whopping £58m by Leverkusen, but there is no doubt he could be worth that sum. A ball-playing centre-back, the Ecuadorian is an excellent passer and would suit Howe's possession-based approach, while his tackling and aerial ability stand out.

United have also been linked with a move for AC Milan defender Fikayo Tomori this month, though would face competition from Spurs who have emerged as contenders for his signature before deadline day. Having fallen out of favour at the San Siro, the former Chelsea defender could be available on a cut price fee.

Should Targett and Trippier stay put amid transfer interest, Kelly's incoming transfer fund could allow Hincapie to arrive from Leverkusen, and Newcastle would have a 'dream' defensive line for the rest of the season.

Tino Livramento, Kieran Trippier, Fabian Schar, Piero Hincapie, Sven Botman, Dan Burn, Lewis Hall and Matt Targett would make up the senior options that Howe has to chose from at the back.