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Newcastle transfer news: Starting XI after January window – Three signings, no Balotelli
NEWCASTLE have had a slow start to the January transfer window, but how could Rafael Benitez's side line up at the end of the month?
Newcastle are looking to secure reinforcements in the transfer market as they battle against relegation from the Premier League.
The Magpies are currently 15th in the table but have managed just one victory in their past eight matches.
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Talk of a takeover at St James’ Park continues to drag on while manager Rafael Benitez has entered the final five months of his contract with no new deal on the way.
January signings could go a long way in convincing the Spaniard to stay in the North East, and Newcastle have been linked with a host of potential arrivals.
Atlanta United midfielder Miguel Almiron is Benitez’s top target this window, with the Magpies’ head of recruitment flying over to the States last month to thrash out details of a move.
However, everything has gone quiet on a potential £25million switch despite the MLS season finishing in early December.
Fans are still hopeful of signing the attacking midfielder, who would surely come straight into Benitez’s starting XI.
Meanwhile, French outlet L’Equipe claim the Toon have made an £8m bid for Rennes left-back Faitout Maouassa.
Newcastle are keen to sign a left-sided defender in order to more easily accomodate a five-man defence, although the report suggests a higher bid will be necessary.
Former Tottenham forward Clinton N’Jie is also on the radar with the Daily Mail reporting that Newcastle have enquired after the 25-year-old.
N’Jie would be a pacy addition to the Newcastle squad and could offer vital support to Salomon Rondon in attack.
Mario Balotelli has also been linked with a shock move to St James' Park but would be a significant burden on the wage bill, while Rolando Aarons and Achraf Lazaar are set to leave on loan and one of Newcastle’s four senior goalkeepers could also depart this month.
Newcastle United predicted line-up after January transfer window
(5-3-2): Dubravka; Yedlin, Fernandez, Lascelles, Dummett, Maouassa; Diame, Shelvey, Almiron; Rondon, N’Jie