OPINION
Time is running out for Newcastle United attacker Christian Atsu to prove he belongs at the club after it was reported that it was a big priority for Rafa Benitez to welcome a new winger in January.
The Chronicle reported that Spanish manager wanted a new winger to arrive at the club in the winter window, as he is concerned about the lack of chances his side currently create.
The newspaper claimed that the club were aiming to have their shortlist of transfer targets narrowed down by November in order to see new recruits arrive as quickly as possible in January.
It is also believed that while Benitez has made it a priority to address his concerns about the lack of chances in the transfer window, the coaching staff will be looking for more from Kenedy, Matt Ritchie, Jacob Murphy and Christian Atsu.
Yet out of all those names mentioned, it’s Atsu that has to worry about his future as a new winger would surely spell the end of his time at St James Park.
Benitez is set to be working with a tight budget that will see him bargain hunting, as reported by the Chronicle, so it will be no surprise if gets rid of players he doesn’t need to boost funds.
Atsu is on the brink of being surplus to requirements as it stands but would definitely not be needed if another new winger arrived.
The 26-year-old has featured six times for the Magpies this season and apart from a small portion of the game against Leicester City has struggled to have any form of positive impact.
Atsu is uselessly careless in possession, wasteful on the ball and constantly makes the wrong decision when it comes to deciding how best to aid his side.
Given that the player, who earns £30,000-a-week currently (Source: Spotrac), also struggled in his 28 league appearances last season then clearly time is running out for him at St James Park.
Atsu has not proven that his Premier League quality despite being handed opportunities to do so and with Benitez making it a priority to recruit a new winger, then the 26-year-old should start packing his bags ahead of the window opening.
