Eddie Howe has warned that "business logic" may still play a part in Newcastle United's January transfer plans.

Just 12 months ago, Howe fought with his board to hold on to experienced defender Kieran Trippier after a series of bids from Bayern Munich. This year he finds himself in a similar position with Martin Dubravka as Al-Shabab try to seal off a move for the goalkeeper's service with Nick Pope still not fully fit.

Howe said he was "forced" to sell Elliot Anderson and Yankuba Minteh last summer as the duo headed to Nottingham Forest and Brighton & Hove Albion. And he would not rule out another potential exit this winter.

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Dubravka will play in the Carabao Cup semi-final first leg at Arsenal but beyond that there could be pressure to sell the 35-year-old before his contract expires in the summer. Cashing in could leave United short on keepers but Howe hinted he may not have full control on any sale.

Howe, speaking at his press conference ahead of the Arsenal clash in the Carabao Cup, told Chronicle Live: "The business logic is taking over from the football logic. There may be football decisions you'd like to make.

"Nothing was bigger than the previous summer when we had to lose two highly promising young players - we were forced to, we had no choice. That is very much the business taking over from the football. I think we are still in that position."

When asked about the prospect of Dubravka playing his last game at the Emirates Stadium, as per reports in Saudi Arabia, Howe said: "We're just concentrating on the games. Massive game against Tottenham then a massive game at Arsenal. There's been no talk of anything other than our matches."

Howe was then asked if he expected a quiet window this month, replying: "I'm not on the frontline so I am not speaking to agents and getting interactions. Others around the club will have a better understanding than me.

"I don't think it is taking too many turns from how I thought it would be. That is not to say anything is cut and dry. It might just take one big move somewhere to start a chain reaction. We are ready for anything. We are able to be flexible."

The big fear for Newcastle fans is the sale of Alexander Isak with Arsenal lurking but Howe has already stated he does not see that being an issue. His comments today may well lean towards the unpopular exits of players he feels are reliable squad members with Dubravka, Trippier and Sean Longstaff all possible sales.