OPINION
Newcastle United are struggling for depth in the full-back position, with DeAndre Yedlin and Paul Dummett walking into the team when fit.
That is a position which Rafa Benitez will need to address in the January window, or, if he is still at the club, during the summer market ahead of next season.
Ideally a Premier League club will have two players competing for every position, and that is most certainly not the case for Yedlin and Dummett, who are miles ahead of their counterparts at St. James’ Park.
Benitez will already be considering potential targets in both positions, and one perfect option looks to be available among his Premier League rivals.
As reported by The Sun, right-back Antonio Valencia could be set to leave Manchester United on a free transfer in the summer, with his contract expiring at the end of the season.
The Red Devils have an option to extend his deal, but that must be triggered by March or he can agree a move elsewhere ahead of the summer window.
While a summer move on a free would be brilliant for the Magpies, a cut-price deal in January would be just as good and would give them a huge boost after a poor start to the season.
Valencia is a hugely experienced Premier League performer who would bring a wealth of know-how and stability to the Newcastle right flank.
His versatility is also a huge asset, with the Ecuador international able to fill in further up the pitch as well as at his normal position of right-back.
This is a move which makes perfect sense for Newcastle, and they must capitalise on this situation between Valencia and the Red Devils immediately.