Rafa Benitez has not had the transfer window he would have hoped for at all.
It looked as if Benitez had an ideal transfer window on the cards. Newcastle United had been set to bring in Jordon Lukaku, but he failed his medical, as well as Gelson Martins, but he moved to Monaco on loan. Despite the club-record arrival of Miguel Almiron and the loan capture of Antonio Barreca, many of the club’s problems weren’t answered.
Benitez will surely be unhappy as he has not been able to add depth to his side who could be set to face a relegation battle this season.
On the other hand, the lack of incomings may benefit others who are yet to step up to the plate. With that being said, let’s take a look at two biggest winners of their transfer window…
Jacob Murphy
The 23-year-old has started just six games for the Magpies in all competitions and has played as few as 104 minutes in the Premier League since October.
So, a move to West Brom on loan could be exactly what the former Norwich City man needs. With the Toon having splashed big cash to bring him to St. James’ in the first place, it’s hard to assume he won’t get another chance in black and white, knowing how careful Newcastle are with their money.
This could be a good move in his career.
Javier Manquillo
The right-back, who has played an equal amount of games at left-back this season, is competent on either side as cover for Paul Dummett and DeAndre Yedlin.
Linked with a move to Lazio towards the end of the window, the fact the Spaniard has remained proves he’s still a part of Benitez’s plans, especially if he continues to play five at the back.
