If Rafael Benitez makes the right signings this summer, Newcastle could have a good enough squad to be a huge threat on the European spots, much to the excitement of the Toon faithful in the Transfer Tavern. 

The surprising departure of Mikel Merino has left a reasonable hole in Newcastle midfield. The Spaniard had a solid season with the Toon and now Rafael Benitez needs to find a replacement. He hasn't been linked with a move for the club but Everton's Muhamed Besic is someone they Magpies should be targeting.

Although he hasn't consistently shown his quality, Muhamed Besic has the talent that could play in any of the top Premier League sides. However, after struggling with injuries at Everton, the Bosnian international has never managed to remain in the Everton side. Indeed, Besic played 23 appearances in the league in his first season at the club but has since never even got close to reaching that number.

In the second half of last year, Besic was sent to Middlesbrough where he played 15 games and helped the side get to the playoffs. With a new boss at the Toffees, Besic may see that his future lies elsewhere, given his lack of action at the club over the years.

As a player, Besic is ideally suited to playing at the base of a 4-2-3-1. Within Benitez's system, he would be a great partner next to Shelvey as he has the mobility and pace to cover. With the ball, Besic is also very talented and is comfortable starting attacks from deep.

If Newcastle can get him fit, a cut-price deal could be a steal for the Magpies.

So Newcastle fans - should Rafa splash the cash?