Newcastle United are only two players away from European football

Newcastle United are a mid-table squad, but the Magpies only need two quality players to break into the top six.

Newcastle United lived with the label of being a Championship side in the Premier League for most of last season. However, the Magpies proved pundits and other doubters wrong as they concluded the campaign in the top half of the table.

Rafa Benitez is not used to being in a relegation battle for several months, but the Spaniard managed to guide his club to safety in impressive style. Although the adversity Newcastle faced last season was a learning experience for the young roster, Benitez will not want to go through that again.

With their current roster, the Magpies are set to work hard to earn sufficient points for a mid-table finish. With that being said, how many more players do Newcastle need to inch closer to playing European football?

Two Players

The key to having a strong roster is adding rotational depth and the Magpies will aim to achieve this objective heading into next season. However, when it comes to the regular lineup, Newcastle are only two quality players away from a top-six finish.

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Only two? In my humble opinion, yes, and here is why. When we analyze the goalkeeper position, Martin Dubravka provides Newcastle with stability and sufficient athleticism to secure the goal. The defensive unit may be young, but it is already among the best back-lines in England.

Jamaal Lascelles and Florian Lejeune are intelligent defenders who intercept passes and crosses well with their frame and recover the ball well through their strength. DeAndre Yedlin and Paul Dummett have been pleasant surprises as they continue to exceed expectations defending the wings.

In general, Newcastle’s midfield has the potential to be one of the best in the Premier League. The current midfielders are good, but Newcastle lacks a long-term option alongside Jonjo Shelvey. Mohamed Diame has been lights out for Newcastle with his mid-season resurgence, but he is also 31-years-old.

Last, but not least, is Newcastle’s front-line. The front-line needs major upgrades as the striking duo of Dwight Gayle and Joselu only combined for nine goals. Aside from Cardiff City and Fulham, Newcastle currently have the third worst front-line in the Premier League.

LONDON, ENGLAND – DECEMBER 23: Dwight Gayle of Newcastle United reacts after a missed chance during the Premier League match between West Ham United and Newcastle United at London Stadium on December 23, 2017 in London, England. (Photo by Steve Bardens/Getty Images) /

If Newcastle can break the bank for a dynamic striker who can score between 15 and 20 goals next season, they will surely have a better chance at finishing in the top six. There are several players up for grabs this summer, but Newcastle are yet to make any concrete bids.