Newcastle United supporters have been pretty satisfied in the Transfer Tavern during the current international break after seeing their team lose just one of their six Premier League matches prior to the fortnight’s interruption.

Rafa Benitez’s men were just two points clear of the bottom three after losing 3-1 to Manchester City back in January, but they have since then won two and drawn three of their six games to move up to 13th place in the table. The Magpies produced a fantastic performance to get the better of Manchester United last month, and they then made it back-to-back wins at St James’ Park last time out by cruising past fellow relegation candidates Southampton, in turn moving five points clear of the Saints who currently occupy the final relegation place.

Consequently, there have been many thrilled Newcastle fans in the Tavern in recent times, several of whom are sincerely hoping that their side can maintain their recent form between now and May, and thus secure their Premier League status.

In the meantime though, there has been much for our resident Magpies supporters to get their teeth into, not least recent reports suggesting that manager Benitez is targeting a number ten this summer in a bid to bolster his squad.

The North East heavyweights have struggled for goals throughout the current campaign with just 30 scored in their 30 Premier League games, with Ayoze Perez one man in particular who has come in for criticism this term having managed just two goals and three assists thus far.

And reports suggest that Benitez is seeking to reinforce his attacking midfield options this term ahead of what they hope will be another Premier League campaign next time round, and as such here are TWO players who could seek to fill that void during the close season…

Tom Cairney

Newcastle were linked with a move for Fulham playmaker Tom Cairney during the summer and winter windows, but ultimately weren’t able to get a deal done for the Scotland international.

However, the 27-year-old continues to prove his worth to Slavisa Jokanovic’s side with three goals and four assists in the Championship this season, which add to the 13 goals and 11 assists he managed in their run to the play-off semi-finals last term.

Clearly, Cairney is a hugely talented midfielder and one Benitez wants at St James’ Park, and with the Spaniard now actively seeking a number ten, he could well make the move to the North East this summer.

Davy Klaassen

Everton’s Davy Klaassen has endured a miserable time in the North West since his move from Ajax during the summer, to the point that his future at Goodison Park is hugely unclear heading into the close season.

The 25-year-old has mustered just five Premier League appearances for the Toffees with just one coming in 2018, with the likes of Gylfi Sigurdsson and Wayne Rooney clearly ahead of him in the number ten pecking order.

Yet it’s evident from his time in the Eredivisie that the Netherlands international is an excellent attacker and may just need a bit more time to adjust to English football.

And with Newcastle seeking a number ten, he may be afforded that chance in the North East.