OPINION
Newcastle United boss Rafa Benitez faces a massive summer transfer window as he looks to strengthen his squad for a run at the top half of the Premier League table.
While the Magpies may yet finish in that top half after a season battling relegation, Benitez will still be looking to bring in reinforcements that will allow the club to avoid such a battle next time around.
One area where the club have noticeably struggled this term has been in central midfield, with Benitez having very few reliable options to call upon.
Jonjo Shelvey has continued to show his unquestionable talent, but his ill-discipline seemingly remains and consistency is another major issue.
Mohamed Diame has come into some form recently but had a torrid start to the season, and the Magpies will need a player of higher calibre in the middle next season.
Mikel Merino is obviously a star for the future at St. James’ Park, with the young Spaniard showing flashes of brilliance in his first season, but it will take time for him to become a real force in the centre of the park for Benitez.
One player who the Magpies should consider to plug that hole this summer is Chelsea star Danny Drinkwater.
As reported by The Times, Drinkwater is currently considering his options ahead of the window after a disappointing first season at Stamford Bridge that has seen him start just five Premier League games.
The 28-year-old pass master joined the Blues last summer for £35million, but has seen his game time limited by the presence of players such as N’Golo Kante, Cesc Fabregas, and Tiemoue Bakayoko.
While Drinkwater will not come cheap after spending just a year in west London, he would be a great option for Benitez in midfield and would provide a marquee signing to build upon this summer.
A holding midfield duo of Shelvey and Drinkwater would be seriously solid, and that could be the base for Benitez to build his team around.
There is no reason why Drinkwater would not be keen to join the Magpies, with the 28-year-old obviously seeking first-team football and a chance to play.
All in all, the Premier League winner would be a brilliant signing for Newcastle this summer as they look to get themselves back where they belong at the top end of the Premier League table.