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Reports: Newcastle United working to finalise a deal for Pape Souare

By Roy Emanuel

LONDON, ENGLAND - DECEMBER 28: Pape Souare of Crystal Palace is interviewed prior to the Premier League match between Crystal Palace and Arsenal at Selhurst Park on December 28, 2017 in London, England. (Photo by Dan Istitene/Getty Images)
LONDON, ENGLAND - DECEMBER 28: Pape Souare of Crystal Palace is interviewed prior to the Premier League match between Crystal Palace and Arsenal at Selhurst Park on December 28, 2017 in London, England. (Photo by Dan Istitene/Getty Images) /
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“Come on, turn up the sun. Turn it up for everyone…”

The January transfer period is at its mid-way point, as clubs battle to gain the final reinforcements of the 2017-18 campaign. Newcastle United certainly need more from the attack, but manager Rafa Benitez will want several other areas in the team to be addressed as well.

Reports this week have the Magpies keen to add Crystal Palace full-back Pape Souare on-loan, with an interest in making the move permanent at the conclusion of the term. The 27-year-old has found consistent playing time difficult to gain this season at Selhurst Park.

Souare has only made three appearances, after being out of action for over a year following a car crash in 2016.

There is a lot to like about the Senegalese international joining Benitez’s line-up, as he could provide excellent depth on the back-line. Injuries can happen at any time, and it is always important to rotate the squad.

However, Souare’s arrival would also complicate another potential signing.

The infamous Kenedy

It has dragged on now for months, but Chelsea’s Kenedy has also been tipped for a move to Tyneside. If the Brazilian does eventually make that happen, it would effectively end the speculation surrounding Souare.

Both players are similar in various ways. Each can fill a full-back role, and are in a situation where they need to prove themselves for their future in the Premier League as well.

Loan deals with an option to buy appears to be the preferred method, and Newcastle could certainly use more talent in the team.

At this point, it will be critical for the Magpies to identify which of these two may bring the most positives for the rest of the season.

Next: Discussing Newcastle United with Warren Barton

Newcastle United and Rafa Benitez are focused on maintaining their status in the English top flight. Transfers this month will be a good step towards that objective, and Pape Souare might be a part of the plan.