Report suggests Benitez will target British players at Newcastle; how they could line up in the Championship

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Newcastle have been linked with numerous transfer targets over the summer as they look to make an instant return to the Premier League.

Rafa Benitez is reportedly targeting British players

In an exclusive report, The Newcastle Chronicle claims that Newcastle United will be targeting British players over the summer in a concerted effort to move away from their failed foreign recruitment drive.

A long line of foreign imports arrived at St James’ Park over the past two seasons, and it would be a challenge to present an argument to call any of those signings a success.

Now The Chronicle reports that while Newcastle will not be withdrawing their scouting network from Europe entirely, they feel they need players with Championship know-how, and so will focus on bringing in domestic talent.

The last time the Magpies were in the Championship seven years ago, they romped to the title with 102 points, with a side that was packed full of British players including Andy Carroll, Kevin Nolan, Joey Barton and Nicky Butt.

Crystal Palace’s Dwight Gayle is a reported transfer target for Newcastle

The North East club have been linked with numerous targets over the summer. The Sun reported of their interest in signing Dwight Gayle, while The Daily Mail claim Benitez wants to bring Ross McCormack in. Matt Ritchie is also high on Newcastle’s list of targets, according to The Sun.

Bournemouth’s Matt Ritchie is also wanted by Newcastle according to reports

Keeping with the British theme, The Sunderland Echo reported on Newcastle’s interest in Blackburn Rovers centre-back Grant Hanley just fa few days ago.

Here is how Newcastle could line up in the Championship next season, should any moves for players materialise and they manage to hold on to their current stars:

There is quite a marked difference, with the team above containing six British players.

If Rafa can pull off at least some of these potential signings, Newcastle will be in a fantastic position to push for promotion to the Premier League.

Benitez will do well to hold on to Andros Townsend