OPINION
The striker debacle at Newcastle United looks to have no signs of slowing, but boss Rafa Benitez also needs to focus on the rest of his attack before the transfer window slams shut next month.
United have a limited transfer kitty, but that does not stop them being in the market for attacking midfielders that could help them transform their firepower.
A player that should be considered is Chelsea’s Ross Barkley – a move, if completed, would be a masterstroke by the Spanish manager.
The Magpies were linked to a move for the top-six playmaker last year according to the Daily Mail, but he favoured a move to Stamford Bridge to play for the former Premier League champions.
The move has arguably backfired as he only made five appearances for the Blues last season, with just two of them coming in the Premier League.
A transfer to Tyneside would give the 24-year-old the chance to kickstart his career after a dismal stint in West London, as he has the potential to establish himself as a genuine attacking talent, something which he has been unfairly deprived of.
When the 22-capped England international was playing for Everton week in, week out, that allowed him to make himself a fan favourite with his goal contributions and creativity in the last third.
A potential link-up with United attacker Ayoze Perez would revive those abilities once again, a partnership that could be lethal if Barkley made the move up north.
Last time Newcastle were linked to Barkley the financial package proved to be an issue, but that should not be a problem now seeming as he has not been a mainstay in the Chelsea team for a while, which means his value may have decreased.
Now the club should plot a raid on the Blues for a player that could represent an ambitious masterstroke by Benitez.
