Newcastle United might not have the best summer transfer window amongst the Premier League clubs but they have coped up pretty well with the new signings as Rafa Benitez’s side has put up a pretty decent display so far.
The Spaniard was appointed back in 2016 at a crucial juncture of time when Newcastle United were going through a wretched period. The Magpies were languishing at the bottom of the relegation zone and subsequently got relegated from the Premier League that season.
Benitez didn’t get much time to steer the club to safety but in the next season, a new Newcastle had emerged. The Toon were pretty vibrant from the start of their Championship campaign and had maintained their performance throughout the season.
At one time it seemed they might not be able to lift the Championship title as Brighton & Hove Albion were sniffing down their shoulder and had closed the gap by a great margin. But on the last day of the season, Newcastle made a great fortune by getting the license of a Premier League club.
They have a number of plays who could turn things around but the manager might want to look into the transfer window for some options in January. Here are three players they should look to sign at the turn of the year:
Lewis Dunk
It doesn’t look like this is Lewis Dunk’s first season in the Premier League. The Seagulls defender has been a pillar of strength in the backline and despite his side’s not so good start, his performance graph has been upwards.
The likes of Jamaal Lascelles and Ciaran Clark have been pretty good for them but when it comes to proven English defenders, apart from Lascelles there isn’t an option at Benitez’s disposal. Dunk didn’t get the recognition that he should have got. He has been likened to the likes of Ben Gibson and Michael Keane but could prove to be a better defender than the two.
Dennis Praet
Benitez ordered his scouts to find him an attacking midfielder in a bid to bring stability to the side. Sampdoria midfielder Dennis Praet had been linked with the club throughout the summer but remained at the Serie-A club.
Benitez wants some more creativity while going forward and the 23-year-old midfielder would be a perfect addition to the squad.
Nicolás Tagliafico
The Argentine left-back could arrive at the St James Park in near future. Following the injury to Paul Dummett, Benitez has prioritised the arrival of a left back in this January and has been hunting for one vigorously.
The 25-year-old Independiente player is very well known among the European circuit and could solve the crisis at the St James Park.
