Newcastle United are reportedly now targeting a loan move for Gabriel Barbosa in the January transfer window.

The Lowdown: Wilson blow

The St. James' Park faithful would have slumped down in their seats when Callum Wilson was forced to come off in their 1-1 draw at home to Manchester United in the Premier League last time out.

The Daily Mail journalist Craig Hope has since revealed that he suffered a torn calf muscle, and that he could now face months on the sidelines.

Given that Wilson is their top scorer so far this season with six goals in total over all competitions, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) consortium will now have to find an adequate replacement, and fast.

The Latest: Barbosa targeted

As per The Daily Mirror, the North East club are now targeting an 'exciting' move for Barbosa next month, and are 'interested' in a loan deal for the Brazil international.

Eddie Howe is 'desperate' to add some more firepower to his team, especially given the news about Wilson, and Barbosa, known as 'Gabigol', is 'among the options' being explored on Tyneside.

His team Flamengo are 'open' to loaning him out for six months, with a £17m obligation to buy in the summer should the Magpies avoid relegation from the Premier League down to the Championship.

However, Barbosa is 'not convinced' about moving to the Toon, as he has doubts over who else they could sign amid a relegation battle.

The Verdict: Get it done

The new owners need to do all that they can in order to convince Gabigol to join in January, given their predicament with Wilson.

A loan deal would be perfect given their battle for survival, and he has shown throughout his career that he is a real poacher in front of goal.

The 25-year-old has scored a total of 149 times at both senior and youth level for club and country, which is impressive considering his age.

Nonetheless, he would be a smart addition to the squad, and the loan-option deal means if worst comes to worst he will not be a heavy burden on the club's finances if they go down.

In other news, find out who Nick Hammond is now pushing to sign for NUFC here!