OPINION
Newcastle United boss Rafa Benitez may not be fully aware of his transfer budget for the January transfer window, but there is one player that he must ensure he snaps up.
That player is speedy Porto winger Yacine Brahimi, who Portuguese outlet O Jogo report as being monitored by Newcastle, along with Premier League rivals West Ham and Everton.
United are in need of a winger in order to help complete the team puzzle, and Brahimi fits the bill perfectly after his impressive form last season.
He netted 12 goals and supplied ten assists across 49 games for the Liga NOS outfit last term, and with that sort of output, St James’ Park would roar at the prospect of Brahimi’s arrival.
Newcastle are beginning to get themselves into gear this season after almost four months of trying, and there is no doubt that the capture of the 28-year-old would vastly improve their chances of guaranteeing their safety.
Yes, he is in-demand, and Benitez would have to fend off the competition to ensure that he makes the move to Tyneside – but the prospect of what he could help Newcastle achieve is actually rather dreamy.
Kenedy did provide a jaw-dropping assist for Salomon Rondon on Saturday, but fans know that this only comes once in a blue moon for the on-loan player.
They cannot rely on someone to deliver the goods and provide sufficient service when they feel like it, which is why swooping for Brahimi is of the most paramount importance.
The fact that he has had experience of playing in the Champions League will no doubt be a very exciting possibility for the Newcastle faithful, and this will only add a touch of sparkle to a promising looking side.
Nevertheless, it is clear that Brahimi is quite the talent – and Benitez must pull out all of the stops to make sure the ace will be wearing the black and white shirt very soon.
