Top five January transfer needs for Newcastle United

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MANCHESTER, ENGLAND – MARCH 04: Luke Shaw of Manchester United (L) attempts to take the ball past Ryan Fraser of AFC Bournemouth (R) during the Premier League match between Manchester United and AFC Bournemouth at Old Trafford on March 4, 2017 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images) /

4) Defensive depth

One of the most frustrating aspects of football (and any sport) is injuries, and all that can come with them. Newcastle United have been hit hard throughout the team, but defenders especially have had difficulty staying fit.

DeAndre Yedlin began the campaign with a knock in pre-season, while Paul Dummett and Florian Lejeune were hurt in the Premier League opener against Tottenham Hotspur. At the moment, team captain Jamaal Lascelles is working his way back from an issue with his ankle.

Luckily, the flexibility of several defenders has allowed for some success. Chancel Mbemba and Javier Manquillo have both been stellar at filling in where needed on the back-line. But in order to remain above the relegation places this term, defensive depth will be crucial.

Manchester United full-back Luke Shaw has been reported to be a Benitez target, but his health problems have been their own saga as well. While certainly a risky proposition, the 22-year-old still has time to improve and has displayed incredible potential.

Ultimately, a move for a central defender may be the best idea. The Chronicle state that interest is with Anderlecht centre-back Kara Mbodji ahead of the transfer period.

Injuries affect every squad, and Newcastle United must be properly prepared.