Rafael Benitez has already become a popular figure among the Newcastle United fans with what he has done at the Tyneside club since taking over the club in March. The owners’ decision to part ways with Steve McClaren and hire Rafael Benitez proved to be too late for the Magpies last season as he could not save Newcastle United from dropping into the Championship but he is ensuring that the club makes an immediate comeback to the Premier League, where they truly belong.
The Magpies are flying very high at the moment but things could change in January when key players like Christian Atsu and Mo Diame head back to Africa for the African Cup of Nations. Also, Yoan Gouffran’s deal is all set to expire in the summer of 2017 and contracts talks are yet to take place. So, it is quite clear that Benitez will look to reinforce his squad in January.
The Chronicle Live claim that the Magpies are looking to add a left winger in January and 28-year-old Brentford winger Alan Judge is topping the former Liverpool manager’s wish list.
Benitez is a fan of the Irish international who was one of the standout performers in the Championship last season and there were reports that he wanted him in the summer only for as much as £10m. However, he did not make a formal approach because the Brentford attacker was out with an injury and he is yet to make a comeback.
The Chronicle Live report that Judge could be available for a cut price of as little as £600,000 in January as he enters the final six months of his contract at Brentford and Benitez is looking to pounce on the opportunity. It could prove to be a brilliant deal for the Magpies.
Judge made it to PFA Championship Team of the Year last season with his impressive tally of 14 goals and 12 assists in 38 appearances and such a prolific winger would bring a lot to St. James’ Park.
Judge’s best position is on the left flank where Benitez has mostly used either Gouffran or Atsu. At the same time, he is very much capable of playing on the right or as a secondary forward. His versatility and experience make him a welcome addition to Newcastle. A player with a tiny stature of just 5 ft 6 ½ in, his game is all about determination and hard work and after his series of good seasons in recent years, he is deserving of a step up now in his career.
Newcastle United look destined for promotion this season unless a terrible disaster comes in their way and despite never tasting Premier League experience, Judge has what it takes to do well at the top tier too. Newcastle fans love a working class hero and Judge is exactly that kind of player. For just £600,000, Judge would be an excellent addition to Newcastle.
