The Toon Army here in the Tavern are desperate for the January transfer window to open, with their recent results making for some desperate times on Tyneside. 

Newcastle United have always been an inconsistent side in terms of staying in a division, but with the Champions League winner Rafa Benitez at the helm many fans thought they’d take their first season back in the top-flight by storm.

However, this isn’t what’s happened with sloppy performances and a lack of quality within the squad being the downfall. So with the gaffer far from happy with the current situation at the club, he’s now looking towards the January transfer window to strengthen his side if he’s given the financial backing.

When you host one of the worst goal-scoring records in the league with half of your goals coming from the defence, you know times are gonna be tough.

Therefore, Newcastle have already started to look towards adding to their current attacking force, with Chelsea youngster Kenedy sealing a loan-move to Tyneside.

The Toon Army here in the Tavern were over the moon with this signing, a player who possesses bags of pace and a strikers touch, just what they need in their current situation.

Nevertheless, with Newcastle not stopping their business there, here’s a look at TWO deals that Benitez must now look to push through.

Islam Slimani

Many fans were keen to see the Algerian striker in action when he made the switch to the Premier League, knowing exactly how special he can be.

However, since joining Leicester City he’s not managed to replicate the form he displayed in Portugal, with a lack of opportunity being a main contributor towards this. Yet, he has still managed to push his tally into double-figures with the Premier League side, but in a side like Newcastle’s he’ll be sure to score goals freely as the vocal point of their attack.

Indeed, with Newcastle in desperate need of a striker, reports in the Leicester Mercury has suggested that Rafa Benitez and his side are huge favorites to sign the striker in January.

A move that would be of great importance for both player and club.

David Luiz

David Luiz has always had the potential to become one of the best defenders in world football, yet he’s struggled to get a decent run in the team with his current side Chelsea, which has caused the Brazilian to become frustrated.

After falling out with Antonio Conte a couple of times during the season it’s always caused doubts over the defender and his future. But with game-time being the only thing that can get Luiz to the level he wants to be at, this will be something that’s guaranteed at Newcastle.

Nevertheless, with Newcastle needing some added quality in the central-defensive region, he could see himself gain lots of attention if he is able to help steer the ship clear of relegation troubles with some inspired performances.

So having been linked with a loan move to Newcastle in the Sun recently, this would be a deal that Benitez should look to make a reality at all costs.

Newcastle fans, thoughts?