Newcastle need additions in January if they are to survive relegation.
Mike Ashley’s ownership of Newcastle United looks set to continue throughout the January transfer window, and that means Rafa Benitez’s only chance of spending money is by selling players.
The Spanish boss was only allowed to spend the money he generated in the summer from player sales, with Ashley unwilling to invest in his club. He is said to be looking to sell the club.
Here are three players Newcastle could sell in January, to raise funds for new players:
Karl Darlow
The 28-year-old has managed just one appearance all season in the Carabao Cup, with Martin Dubravka preferred as the club’s undisputed number one.
With youth on Freddie Woodman’s side, any bid for the ex-Nottingham Forest goalkeeper is likely to be accepted. Leeds United are interested in his signature, according to the Yorkshire Evening Post.
Isaac Hayden
Hayden, 23, is firmly behind Mo Diame and summer signing Ki Sung-yueng in Benitez’s central midfield rankings, and has managed just five appearances in the Premier League – being sent off in one of those.
The former Arsenal midfielder was excellent in Newcastle’s promotion campaign in 2016-17, but has struggled to hold down a place in the first team since regaining Premier League status. Has to move if he is to prevent stagnating his career.
Ayoze Perez
Perhaps slightly more unlikely, Spaniard Perez may find himself axed from the starting eleven – despite featuring in all 18 league games – if The Toon can sign Miguel Almiron from MLS outfit Atlanta United.
Talks are reportedly ongoing with Atlanta for the Paraguay international, while Spanish outlet El Gol Digital claimed in November that Real Sociedad are interested in the former Tenerife forward.
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