NEWCASTLE have "opened talks" with Bayern Munich over a move for Germany star Joshua Kimmich, according to reports.
Eddie Howe's squad has been riddled with injuries over recent months as The Magpies have fallen to 10th in the Premier League.
The Toon head coach confirmed earlier this month that Financial Fair Play restrictions will make it difficult for the club to do any business in the January window.
But according to Bild, they have now enquired about a deal for Kimmich, 28, who has moved from right-back to defensive midfield in recent years.
It is understood Newcastle have posed a question as to whether a Kimmich transfer would be possible.
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The German international is not interested in a January move as Bayern are pursuing a 12th consecutive Bundesliga title and the Champions League.
However, his future beyond the end of the season is said to be "open".
Bayern are "ready to negotiate" a deal for Kimmich - who is under contract until 2025.
The former RB Leipzig man joined Bayern in January 2015 for around £6million.
He has gone on to rack up 368 appearances for the club, scoring 41 goals and providing 100 assists.
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Kimmich's trophy cabinet includes eight Bundesliga titles, three German Cups, six German Super Cups, one Champions League and the Club World Cup.
But Bayern face a fight in the league this season as they currently sit four points adrift of leaders Bayer Leverkusen, although they do have a game in hand.
They have been drawn against Lazio in the last 16 of the Champions League.
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Meanwhile, Newcastle have an injury crisis in midfield with Joelinton, Joe Willock and Elliot Anderson all sidelined.
Sandro Tonali is also unavailable as he serves a ban for a betting scandal that will keep him out for the rest of the campaign.
Howe's men have lost each of their last four Premier League games.
They were also eliminated in the group stage of the Champions League.
They are still in the FA Cup - with their next fixture a trip to Fulham in the fourth round.
But then they travel to high-flying Aston Villa - with Unai Emery's side unbeaten at home in the Premier League this season.
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