Former Newcastle United midfielder Nolberto Solano does not hold much hope that Rafael Benitez will be able to strengthen the team in January.
The Magpies manager was vocal in his unhappiness about the club’s failure to land his main targets in the summer.
In the end, the North-East outfit recruited six players, including Mikel Merino and Joselu, but spent less than £50m.
So far, the club have managed to avoid getting dragged into a relegation battle in the Premier League.
However, after losing five of their last six top-flight outings, Newcastle have dropped to 15th in the table and sit five points above the bottom three.
The January transfer window gives clubs a chance to add depth and fresh quality to their squads, as well as replace long-term injured absentees.
Solano is not feeling hugely optimistic about Newcastle’s ability to attract decent players.
In an interview with the Chronicle, the 42-year-old said:
“Rafa knew that this season would be difficult once the club didn’t spend the money they needed in the summer. As soon as that happened it would have been obvious to him that the club’s main target for the season was to stay in the Premier League.
“I don’t think January will be a massive help to him, to be honest. He will have little money to spend and exactly who is available that will bring in the right quality in January? There aren’t many options out there at this time of year. It’s in June or July you build your squad – and Newcastle didn’t do that.”
[ad_pod ]
