OPINION
Newcastle United should consider a raid for Bournemouth midfielder Harry Arter in January to help bolster their squad.
The Sun report that Crystal Palace and West Ham are both in the hunt to sign the 27-year-old despite him only singing a new deal in June.
However, Rafael Benitez should consider rivalling for his signature in the New Year as he could be a sensational addition to his side.
Newcastle currently have Jonjo Shelvey, Isaac Hayden and Mikel Merino as their senior options in the centre of the park, but don’t have much depth beyond that.
The Magpies need an additional central midfielder in their squad to provide competition and help them stay clear of a relegation scrap this campaign.
Bournemouth’s pass master Arter could be a great arrival at St James’ Park if given the opportunity and has the quality to make a big impact.
The Republic of Ireland international is a composing presence in the middle of the park and has shown he can be a driving force in the top flight.
The central midfielder has become a key player for Bournemouth in the top flight and keeps the tempo of his side ticking over with a great range of passing.
He is a fiery character too that loves a tackle and is the sort of player that would some extra steel to the Newcastle team.
There could be the potential to have a brilliant midfield trio of Arter, Shelvey and Merino if he joined the North East club and that could certainly cause real damage in the Premier League.
Benitez is hopeful that a well reported takeover of Newcastle takes place imminently in order to give him a cash injection in the January window.