Top five January transfer needs for Newcastle United

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BURNLEY, ENGLAND – OCTOBER 30: Karl Darlow (R) and Robert Elliot of Newcastle United (L) warm up prior to the Premier League match between Burnley and Newcastle United at Turf Moor on October 30, 2017 in Burnley, England. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images) /

5) Goalkeeper

The situation at goalkeeper for Newcastle United has certainly been unique, as plans have seemed to change very often about who is the number one choice. Rob Elliot has been the main option thus far, with Karl Darlow taking over the spot during the past two games.

Longtime Magpie Tim Krul officially departed after over a decade with the club this summer for Brighton, after finding himself on-loan several times. Matz Sels is in the same situation now at RSC Anderlecht.

There is a sense that Rafa Benitez is waiting for the right person to come about, and next month could be that moment. Barcelona keeper Jasper Cillessen has been a rumoured target and would be a fantastic signing.

Real Madrid’s Kiko Casilla has been reported as well, but the possibility of him making the move to England may not happen until the summer if at all.

United also have an interesting scenario with young Freddie Woodman, and his immediate future may hinge on the decisions that are made in the transfer market. The Magpies could simply move forward with the three goalkeepers in place now, or the 20-year-old could be part of a loan deal.

Woodman’s development can be accelerated with more minutes, and he does not appear ready to gain those at the moment with Newcastle.

Elliot and Darlow have been serviceable options, but Rafa Benitez wants more out of the goalkeeper position at St. James’ Park.