OPINION
Newcastle United are looking to freshen up their squad as they prepare for their return to Premier League action next season.
It will be Rafa Benitez’s first full season in charge of a top-flight English team since leading Liverpool into the 2009-10 campaign.
The Spanish manager seems determined to make a host of new signings in the summer in order to boost his sides’ chances of surviving in the Premier League next season.
The Northern Echo recently reported that the Magpies are looking to sign experienced defensive midfielder Lucas Leiva from fellow Premier League side Liverpool this summer.
This is not the first former Benitez player who has been linked with a reunion as Pepe Reina has also been tipped with a move to St James’ Park this summer.
This is Futbol looks at three other players who have been managed by Benitez who are likely to be available and could make a significant impact at the Tyneside club next season.
Here are the top-class trio, including a two-time Champions League winner: