If Woodman leaves Newcastle should Sunderland gamble on him?

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Newcastle could loan Freddie Woodman out this month so should Sunderland make a move?

Freddie Woodman of Newcastle United celebrates their second goal during The Emirates FA Cup Third Round match against Luton Town.

Newcastle United manager Rafa Benitez has hinted that Freddie Woodman could leave the club on loan during the January transfer window – but only if he can sign a replacement.

Woodman made his first senior appearance for the Magpies during the 3-1 FA Cup third round victory over Luton Town at the weekend and has also been on the bench for the past two Premier League matches with Rob Elliot injured.

Sergio Aguero of Manchester City fails to control the ball from a cross watched by Rob Elliot (R) of Newcastle United during the Premier League match at St James’ Park.

“If we are going to do something with him, it will have to be this month, but Elliot is injured and we are working to try and find what we need and after we will make a decision,” Benitez told the Chronicle.

“It is not difficult, it is simple to take responsibility and do what you need to do. I was talking with his agent and they know the position. We have to wait and see if we can do something.”

If Woodman is allowed to leave St James’ Park on a temporary basis this month should Sunderland take the unusual step of trying to sign the goalkeeper from their direct rivals?

Chris Coleman, manager of Sunderland, during The Emirates FA Cup Third Round match against Middlesbrough.

Moves directly between the two North East clubs are rare, but do happen, and the Black Cats are potentially in need of a new stopper with neither Robbin Ruiter or Jason Steele impressing since being signed over the summer.

Acquiring Woodman would be something of a gamble with the 20-year-old having not played any higher than Sky Bet League Two level in English football so far in his career – with experience in the Scottish Premiership with Kilmarnock as well.

That said, the youngster is well regarded by Newcastle and with finances tight at the Stadium of Light, being able to sign a player on loan would certainly help the Wearsiders balance the books while giving manager Chris Coleman new options in his squad.