Newcastle United are reportedly keen on Southampton’s Ryan Bertrand, but perhaps a teammate would be a better option.
It has been a hugely disappointing season for the Saints and they could end up being relegated to the Championship if they are not able to turn their form around. And of course, relegation is likely to lead to a mass clear-out if they do ultimately go down.
Bertrand would be a good signing for the Magpies if they managed to get something done, but perhaps Newcastle should consider prioritising a move for his teammate who is set to be offered the chance to stay in the top flight if the Saints are unable to beat the drop.
The Daily Mirror reported earlier this month that several teams are eyeing Charlie Austin. And while Newcastle were not one of the sides linked with the striker, perhaps Rafa Benitez should think about making a move for the 28-year-old.
Austin carries a reputation for being injury-prone, but that should not stop Newcastle joining the race as he is clearly the kind of goalscorer that would improve most squads in the Premier League.
He has started just six league games this season, making a further 12 appearances from the bench, but still tops the Saints’ goalscoring charts with seven strikes to his name and boasts one of the best minutes per goal ratios in the top flight. And he proved his lethal touch by scoring less than a minute after being brought on against Arsenal at the weekend.
Newcastle meanwhile, could undoubtedly do with strengthening their striker options during the summer. And while Austin may not be reliable enough to be their one forward signing during the next window, Benitez is unlikely to regret signing Austin if he joins the race and gets something done.
It would be a gamble to target Austin, but it is a deal that would have the potential to be a masterstroke if the Englishman was able to maintain his fitness.
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