Newcastle United are in pole position to return to the Premier League at the first time of asking this season.
They’re comfortably sat at the very top of the Championship table and have impressed with some dominant displays throughout the course of the campaign so far.
A lot of credit has to go to manager Rafa Benitez, who has stuck by them through the relegation from the top flight and all through this season, helping them to what has been a massively enjoyable season.
It goes without saying that Benitez has enjoyed an illustrious career as a manager.
He’s been at the helm of some top clubs throughout his career, including the likes of Liverpool and Chelsea in England and also European heavyweights such as Napoli and Real Madrid in recent years.
So, could Rafa work his magic and bring some personally well-known talent to Newcastle this summer? We’ve taken a look at some players that the Magpies could sign that have previously worked under him.
Emiliano Insua
Insua worked under Benitez during his tenure at Liverpool. The Stuttgart man is a left-back by trade but can play further up them pitch. He has good crossing ability, can pick a pass and would provide valuable experience.
Duvan Zapata
Zapata worked under Benitez at Napoli and now he’s showing his quality at Udinese on loan. The 25-year-old has scored eight goals this season in all competitions and would provide a different kind of striker for Newcastle.
Nabil El Zhar
El Zhar was a player for Liverpool when Benitez was at the club and despite little involvement at the time for the Reds, he’s a far better player now. He’s creative, versatile and puts his trickery to good use.
Nathaniel Chalobah
Chalobah worked under Benitez during his loan spell in Italy and although he didn’t exactly flourish, he’s an excellent prospect. He’s a hard-hitting, efficient defensive midfielder and would be a great signing for Newcastle, even on loan.
Martin Kelly
Kelly is a utility man at Crystal Palace and Benitez will know his qualities from his time at Liverpool. Although he hasn’t kicked on to big things as much as he was once thought to be capable of, he’d still be a solid addition with experience for Newcastle.
Jese Rodriguez
Jese worked under Benitez at Real Madrid and is evidently out of favour at PSG. He’s been spending the second half of the season on loan at Las Palmas in Spain and a move to the Premier League could tempt him. It’d be a massive coup, but stranger things have happened.