Rafa Benitez did extremely well to get Newcastle United straight back into the top flight this season but the Magpies are not too comfortably placed in the points table, more than 20 games into the season. They are just two points off the drop zone and the January transfer window will now give the manager a chance to improve on his options in the squad.
Though the club is in the middle of a takeover, reports claim that the manager will be backed up with enough funds to bring in his top transfer targets. But Rafa might have to do with signing players on loan, to help his side’s top-flight survival.
There are a number of star players who could be available on loan this month and here are three players the Magpies can target:
Marko Grujic (Liverpool):
The Serbian international joined Liverpool at the start of the previous season but injuries have seen him fail to make an impact on the first team at Anfield. Manager Jurgen Klopp is convinced that he needs some time out on loan for the rest of the season and the likes of Huddersfield Town and West Ham United are interested in his services. There is no reason for the Magpies to not go all out for him, given their troubles with a rotating midfield.
Daniel Sturridge (Liverpool):
The English international is one of the many players struggling for game time at Anfield this season. His injury history and loss of form have seen him drop down the pecking order at Liverpool recently and reports suggest that he wants to quit the club this month. Liverpool have slapped a £30m price tag on him and his wages will also be a problem for the Magpies but his quality is what can make the difference for Rafa this season and he is a player they should definitely look at.
Kenedy (Chelsea):
The Brazilian all but completed a move to the St James’ on loan earlier this month but it is understood that Antonio Conte, the Chelsea manager, decided to delay his move. The Magpies have agreed on a deal in principle but will have to work hard to get it over the line. Rafa is convinced that he is an important addition to his squad this month and even if they have to work hard, they should look to do what it takes to land him before the deadline day.