Newcastle United boss Sam Allardyce may face a battle convincing club owner Mike Ashley to release funds for the January market.

The People says Allardyce feels his squad needs significant strengthening, especially in defence, where his numbers will be further decimated by the African Nations Cup in January.

He wants to add Chelsea's Tal Ben Haim and Barcelona defender Edmilson and believes he can land both players if he is given backing.

But Ashley needs to be convinced about Allardyce's next signings.

Sources close to the sportswear tycoon reveal he is unhappy with the quality - and cost, in some cases - of Allardyce's buys. Three new defenders have failed to improve their side.