Newcastle United have had a pretty slow-burner of a transfer window, even though it was expected that the Magpies weren’t going to go all gung-ho in the summer period.
The Tyneside outfit recently concluded the signing of Swiss defender Fabian Schar for a fee of £3m but they still have a lot of work to do if they are to improve on last season’s performances.
Talks are underway regarding a move for Yoshinori Muto and if they can sign him, they’d have a bit more depth up top. Signing a forward was imperative considering the team managed the fewest goals in the top half of the table last season.
There is room for more signings. But because of how constrained Rafa Benitez is when it comes to spending money, we take a look at the best possible free agents Newcastle can sign to improve their squad depth.
#3 Max Meyer
The German’s contract with Schalke came to an end a few weeks ago. He still hasn’t joined a club, which means either he is waiting for the right offer or there is an issue with his wage demands.
Newcastle don’t really have the finances to afford big wages, but considering they haven’t spent all that much money, they should try and lure Meyer.
Also read: Newcastle United close in on Bundesliga forward: Potential bargain of the window?
The former Schalke midfielder was deployed as a number 8 last season but is more of a natural number 10. Not only will Newcastle sign a player for free, but they’ll solve the issue of not having an out and out number 10 in their squad.
#2 Milan Badelj
A holding midfielder, Badelj was part of the Croatia squad that made it to the final of the recently concluded FIFA World Cup. Badelj was a regular for Fiorentina last season having made 27 appearances in the Serie A.
Predominantly a defensive-minded midfielder, Badelj has the ability to pick a pass from the midfield which would make a good addition to the Magpies.
Benitez loves players who can ping the ball around which is why he trusted Shelvey. Badelj, though, would add a lot more quality and composure to the team with his experience.
#1 Bernard
The Brazilian’s contract with Shakhtar Donetsk is up and he is currently nursing an injury and looking for a new club.
A pretty agile and tricky player, Bernard would easily be a big signing if Newcastle can afford his wages.
Last season, Bernard managed six goals and three assists in 18 games. A pretty agile winger, Bernard has the ability to dribble past defenders with a drop of a shoulder and his addition would make Newcastle a much more potent side in the wide areas.