Newcastle’s defensive woes were on show on Boxing Day as Liverpool exploited weak links Jamaal Lascelles and Paul Dummett – Rafa Benitez’s desperation for reinforcements at the back has been made clear in recent weeks as they are linked with numerous names such as Eintracht Frankfurt left-back Jetro Willems but, after his man of the match showing against Bournemouth, the Spaniard should turn his attention to Spurs’ Kyle Walker-Peters.
What’s the word?
Well, Rafa Benitez has been unable to downplay the threat of relegation as his side sit 15th in the standings as of 27th December – in fact, the Spaniard has done quite the opposite as he states that it would be a ‘miracle’ if the Magpies were able to earn top flight football for another season – and the need for fresh faces remains apparent, but so does Mike Ashley’s tight-pocketed approach to the transfer market.
Former Reds boss Benitez has been operating in a very small sector of the market as his resources prove insufficient in order to truly make a difference at St James’ Park and, should Ashley’s stance continue to be unwavering, he seems resigned to Championship football in the 2019/20 season.
After leaking four soft goals to Jurgen Klopp’s men, the backline clearly needs a revamp and a move for Walker-Peters would suit all parties.
Versatile full-back
The 21-year-old was the best player on the park as the Lilywhites strolled to a resounding 5-0 victory over the Cherries in which he assisted three – yes, three – in just 35 first-half minutes.
His ability to play at left-back as well as his preferred right-back spot would make him a huge asset to Newcastle as the likes of Dummett and Javier Manquillo have looked decidedly below standard – a six-month loan move for the Londoner could be a wiser move than a permanent transfer for a perhaps less reliable player, albeit a temporary solution.
Benitez can save whatever budget he has for bringing in a new number 10 and a loan move would surely sit well with Ashley, who will cut corners and costs whenever possible – the only remaining question is as to whether Spurs would allow him to leave.
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