Newcastle urged to sign former Man Utd goalkeeper David De Gea on free transfer in January by club legend Alan Shearer

The ex-Magpies star wants the club to sign a new goalkeeper and a striker in the January transfer window to bolster their squad ahead of the second phase of the season. He has recommended former Manchester United custodian and free agent De Gea's name.

Speaking on BBC Radio 5 Live, the former England international said: "I would agree goalkeeper and centre forward would be the two main priorities for me."

When asked if the club should go after De Gea, Shearer added: "Yeah, I would. I think Newcastle need a goalkeeper, and De Gea is out there. I know the salary would be huge but they wouldn’t have to pay a fee for him."

Newcastle have been linked with a move for the Spanish goalkeeper after they lost first-choice custodian Nick Pope to a long-term injury. The England international suffered a shoulder injury earlier this month during a clash against the Red Devils. Pope is expected to remain out of action for at least five months.

Eddie Howe's side are also linked with a loan move for Manchester City outcast Kalvin Phillips who is reported to be a priority target for the club next month. Considering their financial constraints, it remains to be seen if they can make two signings when the transfer window opens in January.