Rafa Benitez has hinted that Newcastle could turn to loan deals next month in a bid to bring in the ‘best players possible for us now’, suggesting that we ‘have to’ do deals for players with ‘Premier League experience’ and the ‘right personality’ in the upcoming January transfer window.
Looking at our squad, it is clear that we lack experience, Premier League know-how and quality, however it will be difficult to attract players of that ilk given our precarious league position and potentially low budget.
With that in mind, it’s easy to see why we’d target loan deals. They’re not what some fans like to see, but in the situation we find ourselves in, one or two inspired loan arrivals could be the difference between beating the drop and the bottom 3.
Here’s what Rafa’s had to say about potential arrivals next month, suggesting that loan deals could be the way forward to bring in the type of player Newcastle currently need:
“We have to try to bring the best players possible for us now.
“That means if you have a player on loan who’s quite good now, then we have to do it.
“There are not too many options with Premier League experience, with the maximum level and the right personality, so it’s not easy.
“But you have to do your research everywhere.”
This makes sense, with the message here appearing to be ‘we need players for today, not tomorrow’. This is an approach we’ve so often overlooked, with Ashley so often looking to sign young talents whose value will triple in years to come, however we’re in dire need of proven quality and experienced Premier League campaigners and Rafa knows it.
As mentioned above, proven Premier League quality doesn’t come cheap these days, so any big permanent deals seem unlikely (especially while a takeover hangs in the balance), meaning loan deals could be the way forward next month.
Who do you think fits the bill to be brought in on loan in January?
