Curveballs can have impact on Toon recruitment in January
MONEY IS THERE – BUT THAT COULD CHANGE
NEWCASTLE United manager Rafa Benitez is hopeful that his side will be strengthened next month as he looks to plot the way to survival.
Benitez wants a left-back to offer cover and competition to Paul Dummett, while a No 10 and another striker may also be on the list.
But with January comes a winter premium and, given that owner Mike Ashley has not signed a player on a permanent deal in January since 2016, some fans are not holding their breath.
Yet it is understood that there is money to spend if the right player and deal for the club comes along, and it was made clear in a recent fans’ forum that a search for a new left-back was under way.
But what could have an impact on Benitez’s January business? Here are five potential game changers.
MIKE ASHLEY SELLS, AND A NEW OWNER COMES IN
Given that Christmas is very much upon us, the hope of a new
owner in time for the January window is extremely unlikely.
But other than Ashley, and the potential buyers, few will know just how far along negotiations are.
The hope will be that come January 1, Ashley has handed over the keys to an owner willing to back Benitez.
In reality, time is against that happening. If it happens, United may be able to move a bit more freely in the market, but if it doesn’t, Ashley has a decision to make.
Does he back his manager, and
ensure a comfortable end to the season while looking for a buyer or does he leave Benitez to limp on, fighting relegation, and potentially knocking value off the club?
RAFA BENITEZ’S CONTRACT ISSUE
Had Benitez signed a contract extension in the summer, it is thought that there may have been a bit of movement in the budget.
But failure to give Benitez reassurances over the ambition of the club have led to a stalemate.
The Spaniard’s contract runs out in the summer, and talks have yet to pick up.
But it might be a case that if all parties can come to agreement, Benitez signs a new contract in January and is handed a budget to go and build.
The likelihood? Benitez is constantly asked about his future at United, but normally refuses to address it.
Something will have to give sooner rather than later.
YOSHINORI MUTO AND KI’S INVOLVEMENT IN THE ASIAN CUP
It was hoped that Muto and Ki would not be involved in the tournament, which takes place every four years.
But sadly for Newcastle, both men will be in the squads for their respective countries, meaning that both could miss up to eight games.
With the squad already thin on bodies, losing a man in form such as Ki (left), as well as Muto, is a huge blow to United – even just for the month. It might force United’s hand in the market.
JONJO SHELVEY’S FITNESS
The midfielder is out
with a thigh injury, and travelled to Spain to see a specialist last week.
Having not started a game since the draw at Southampton at the end of last month, Shelvey’s absence has been noticeable, even if it has coincided with a great run of form.
If Shelvey’s injury keeps him out for longer than expected, or flares back up next month, it will create an issue, especially with Ki away on international duty.
Benitez is currently using Sean Longstaff on the bench, knowing that his other options, apart from Isaac Hayden, are limited.
Given the run of games between now and January, injuries and suspensions are always a worry, so Shelvey’s fitness might prove crucial to January business.
UNITED’S LEAGUE POSITION
This one could tip either way for United. Staring relegation in the face could prompt Ashley to spend, and back the manager, to save the club from a third relegation under the owner.
But if United are comfortably away from the relegation zone come January 1, then Ashley may think the squad has enough to survive without the need for additions.
That would be a huge risk, and given the fact United face Liverpool, Manchester United and Chelsea over the next few weeks it’s hard to see that happening.