Newcastle are likely to be busy in the January transfer window.
Rafa Benitez will have already drawn up a shortlist of players he needs at Newcastle United, regardless of whether owner Mike Ashley eventually sells the club before the January transfer window.
Amanda Staveley’s PCP Capital Partners are said to be in talks with Ashley, but a deal seems to be far from agreed and it could see Spanish boss Benitez left with nothing to improve his squad next month.
The Magpies desperately need it, though. Saturday evening’s 3-2 loss to Leicester City at St. James’ Park was their sixth defeat in seven league outings, as Ayoze Perez scored an 86th-minute own goal to the heartbreak of Toon fans.
A new goalkeeper, left-back, central midfielder, a winger and a new striker are all likely to be positions Benitez will want to strengthen, but with a lack of funds he will find that rather difficult.
It should see him look to bring in a number of bargains, or even use the loan market. That should turn his attention to Crystal Palace speed machine Papa Souare, who is said to be on the loan list.
The Daily Mail state that the 27-year-old can leave Selhurst Park on a temporary basis, with European giants Galatasaray and Marseille said to be interested in landing the Senegal international.
Souare was the victim of a vicious car crash that left him with a broken thighbone and jaw following the collision, keeping him sidelined for almost 12 months. It forced Palace to enter the transfer market to bolster their ranks.
Patrick van Aanholt and Jeffrey Schlupp were both signed, while Joel Ward can also fill in on the left. Surplus to requirements, he would be the perfect addition on the north east.
Javier Manquillo has not yet proved his £4.5million transfer fee, while Ciaran Clark is a much better option at centre-back. Paul Dummett has not featured since the first game of the season and with his contract up, the 26-year-old should be offloaded.
Signing on loan would save Newcastle from spending any substantial money, and Souare’s pace and willingness to get forward would give Benitez the attacking impetus he is looking from his players to steer the Toon clear of relegation.
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