The top five transfer needs for Newcastle United

The objective for this season was survival, however, Rafa Benitez aims to make Newcastle United a top-six contender. To do this, the Spaniard needs quality transfers this summer.

Transforming Newcastle United from an under-achieving, mid-table club into a top-six contender is no easy task. Rafa Benitez agreed to join the Magpies to accept a new challenge in his managerial career. However, without the arrival of quality transfers this coming summer, Newcastle United will continue to struggle next season.

At present, the Magpies have some decent players in key positions, but Benitez lacks multiple playmakers. Aside from Jamaal Lascelles, Jonjo Shelvey and, at times, Matt Ritchie, Newcastle do not have players who can significantly influence a match in their favor.

With that being said, Benitez will be actively pursuing reinforcements in defense, midfield and, most certainly, up top. Not only will this activity improve the overall quality of Newcastle United, it will create internal competition.

Transfer Market Strategy

Newcastle can approach the transfer window in many ways. What the Magpies need to realize is that the team does not need to change drastically to be successful. Benitez has some good, promising pieces already and he does not necessarily need the best players in Europe.

What Benitez and his staff should do is seek the best possible players who are in frustrating situations with their current clubs. This can simply be achieved within the Premier League, as several players are wasting time and potential at struggling clubs.

Here are five transfer needs that Newcastle United must address in the summer transfer window.