Over the next 18 months, Eddie Howe may have a few big decisions to make regarding his midfield options.
With both Bruno Guimaraes and Joelinton approaching 30-years-old, and the trio of Jacob Ramsey, Joe Willock and Lewis Miley each struggling for consistent minutes, we’re going to have to start thinking about who will be starting alongside Sandro Tonali in a couple of seasons’ time and beyond.
A wide range of names have been linked in the past few weeks, ranging from promising youngsters like Kees Smit and Aleksandar Stankovic to more established stars like Napoli’s Scott McTominay and Inter’s Davide Fratessi.
And a fresh report is once again connecting us with a January move for a former transfer target, one previously admired by Howe and who could be on his way out sooner rather than later…
Gallagher eyeing Premier League return?
According to Sky Sports, long-term Newcastle United target Conor Gallagher is looking to depart Atletico Madrid in January and hopes to secure a permanent return to the Premier League.
Despite the player himself stating that he is happy in the Spanish capital, the general consensus seems to be that the former Chelsea star wants more regular minutes, particularly in the build up to the World Cup where he will be fighting for a spot in the England midfield.
Newcastle were linked with a move once again over the summer, with Eddie Howe an big fan, although the La Liga side fought to keep him despite Premier League interest. But with 12 substitute appearances so far this season, his place as a starter looks increasingly under threat.
Sky Sports’ report also adds that should Gallagher move from Atletico Madrid, he would like it to be to a ‘top club’ with European football still on the table, stating that most clubs outside of last seasons top four have shown interest.
This could put us in an advantageous position, with us still able to offer Champions League football ahead of the World Cup, although it’s stressed in the piece that Atletico will ask for a permanent sale, not a loan.
Will Eddie Howe get his man?
It’s no secret that Howe values Premier League experience and versatility in a lot of his transfer targets, and Gallagher showed plenty of skill and quality during his stints with Crystal Palace and Chelsea.
The question is, are Newcastle still keen on the 25-year-old, or are we focused on highly-rated AZ Alkmaar teenager Kees Smit instead, who is thought to open to joining us in January.
Gallagher certainly won’t be cheap either, as Atletico will be wanting to recoup all of the £35m they spent on him roughly 18 months ago, with a loan move off the table.
But similar to some of our other ‘experienced’ midfield targets like Scott McTominay and Inter Milan’s Davide Frattesi, if we can keep the price tag for Gallagher to under £40m, then it will be hard not to be tempted to sign a dependable England international who still has lots to offer.
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Highest Paying Jobs in the UK 2026 (No Degree Required) – Full Hiring Guide
The UK job market in 2026 is creating strong opportunities for workers without university degrees. Due to labor shortages, rising wages, and demand across key industries, many roles now offer competitive salaries, stable contracts, and visa sponsorship options for qualified workers.
This guide focuses on real, in-demand UK jobs that pay well, require little or no formal education, and are suitable for both UK residents and international applicants.
1. HGV (Truck) Driver Jobs in the UK
Heavy Goods Vehicle (HGV) drivers remain among the highest-paid non-degree workers in the UK. Supermarkets, logistics firms, construction companies, and fuel suppliers continue to face driver shortages, pushing wages higher each year.
Salary Range
- £38,000 – £65,000 per year
- Overtime and night shifts can exceed £70,000
Requirements
- UK HGV Class 1 or Class 2 licence
- Driver CPC qualification
- No university degree required
Why This Job Pays Well
Long hours, responsibility, and supply chain importance make HGV driving one of the best-paid manual professions in the UK. Employers often cover training costs.
2. Construction Site Supervisor (Experience-Based)
Construction supervisors oversee daily site operations, safety compliance, and workforce coordination. Many professionals rise into this role through experience rather than formal education.
Salary Range
- £40,000 – £60,000 per year
Requirements
- Construction site experience
- CSCS or SSSTS certification
- No degree required
Construction jobs attract high advertising bids due to insurance, equipment, training, and recruitment demand.
3. Security Control Room Operator
Unlike basic security guard roles, control room operators monitor CCTV systems, coordinate emergency responses, and manage access control for large facilities, airports, and business centers.
Salary Range
- £35,000 – £50,000 per year
Requirements
- SIA licence
- Basic IT and communication skills
- No academic degree required
4. Warehouse Operations Manager (Promotion-Based)
Many warehouse managers start as pickers or supervisors and move up through performance. E-commerce growth has pushed logistics salaries significantly higher.
Salary Range
- £42,000 – £58,000 per year
Industries Hiring
- Amazon fulfilment centres
- Supermarket distribution hubs
- Import and export warehouses
5. Care Home Manager (NVQ Route)
Care home managers oversee elderly and assisted living facilities. This role follows vocational certification routes rather than university education.
Salary Range
- £45,000 – £65,000 per year
Why It Pays Well
An aging population and staff shortages have pushed salaries higher, especially in private care homes.
6. Roofing & Specialist Trades
Roofers, scaffolders, and specialist trade workers earn premium wages due to physical demand and skill shortages.
Salary Range
- £180 – £300 per day
- Annual income up to £70,000
7. Taxi & Private Hire Drivers (High-Demand Cities)
London, Manchester, Birmingham, and Leeds offer strong earning potential for licensed private hire drivers.
Salary Range
- £35,000 – £55,000 per year
Visa Sponsorship for UK Jobs
Some UK employers offer sponsorship under the Skilled Worker visa route. While not all jobs qualify, roles in logistics, healthcare support, construction, and technical operations may be eligible depending on employer approval.
How to Apply for High-Paying UK Jobs
- Apply directly on company career websites
- Register with UK recruitment agencies
- Obtain necessary licences before applying
- Prepare a UK-style CV
In 2026, high-paying jobs in the UK are no longer limited to university graduates. With the right skills, certifications, and experience, workers can secure stable, well-paid roles across logistics, construction, healthcare support, and security sectors.
For job seekers aiming to work in the UK or improve their income, focusing on short-term training and high-demand industries remains the smartest path.
