Journalist Ben Jacobs has claimed Newcastle United maybe get the chance to sign Conor Gallagher on deadline day if a transfer domino effect occurs.

What's the word?

The Magpies were slow to act in the early stages of the winter market but have now pulled off their first big incoming with Anthony Gordon just arriving from Everton for around £40m.

And it looks as though they are keen to follow that up with another signing or two before the month comes to an end. Indeed, James Maddison is said to be a key target over the coming days.

If that deal doesn't get done, perhaps the club will look to Gallagher who has been linked earlier on in the window. What's more, with Chelsea pushing hard to land Enzo Fernandez, perhaps a path will open up for the Englishman to be sold.

While speaking about it the Blues midfielder on Liverpool-focused podcast Born and Red, Jacobs explained how things could work out for Newcastle in the coming hours of the January window.

He said: "Enzo Fernandez, if he joins Chelsea, will help a lot of clubs looking for a midfielder.

"Because it will spark a domino effect. If Enzo Fernandez comes into Chelsea, there's a very real likelihood that Conor Gallagher might be surplus to requirements.

"And then, in addition to that, those looking at Gallagher, if it isn't a loan, getting quoted £35m or £40m."

Good move?

Seeing as Leicester City are said to be looking for at least £55m (£40m upfront) to sell Maddison, Gallagher could represent a cheaper option this winter.

Indeed, if the Blues spend big on Enzo Fernandez – with a fee over £100m needed to land him from Benfica – Chelsea could be desperate to claim any kind of cashback with a quick sale.

This could open the door for Newcastle to come in with an offer up to or potentially even less than that figure of £35m quoted by Jacobs.

Seeing as the midfielder is still only 22 years of age, but has played four times for England and has good Premier League experience, that certainly wouldn't be a bad price for a strong addition to Eddie Howe's squad.

This certainly looks like one to keep an eye on, especially if one of those dominos takes a tumble.