Did Magpies dodge a few bullets by not striking big-money deals in January?

INJURIES AND STRUGGLES FOR FORM BLIGHTING SOME FORMER UNITED TARGETS

Football writer NEWCASTLE United were linked to dozens of players throughout January, and finished the month with Miguel Almiron and Antonio Barreca arriving.

Some of those linked to United were on Rafa Benitez’s list of targets, others not so much – but what happened to those linked? Here is a look at 10 of those who were reportedly on their way to Tyneside.

GELSON MARTINS WHAT HAPPENED:

Rafa Benitez wanted to sign the Portuguese international, and it looked like the Magpies were going to sign him on loan but he opted for AS Monaco instead.

It’s been brilliant, and really highlights why Benitez wanted the winger on board. He’s nabbed two goals in five appearances, and set up a further three.

HIS FORM SINCE: JORDAN LUKAKU (LAZIO) DIEGO LAXALT (AC MILAN)

THE LINK:

Another left-back who was touted to give an option as a leftwing back.

WHAT HAPPENED:

Newcastle held brief talks about the player and enquired about his availability but the full-back held talks with AC Milan and indicated he was happy to fight for his place.

HIS FORM SINCE:

He’s played just six minutes this month as his big move to AC Milan goes from bad to worse.

GREGOIRE DEFREL (AS ROMA – ON LOAN AT