OPINION
Newcastle United need to add strength and depth to their squad this January, but Rafael Benitez is probably well aware of the need to operate on a relative shoestring.
Because of the likelihood of a conservative budget, the Magpies will have to be clever in their recruitment drive, and that could mean looking at the Championship for players to help boost their survival hopes.
Benitez has made no secret of his desire to recruit a left-back and a winger this winter, and could land a decent alternative in both by signing Adam Reach.
The Sheffield Wednesday man has caught the eye this season with a series of long range screamers, and has been a consistent and important member of the Championship club’s side as well.
The 25-year-old’s versatility could make him a useful option for the Toon Army in the second half of the season, and with Wednesday struggling to match their impressive form from last season, could be tempted to make the step up to the Premier League.
Reach is a north east native, and not only supported Newcastle as a boy but spent his formative years at the club, leaving as a 15-year-old, and would surely jump at the opportunity to represent his boyhood club.
If Benitez can lure him home, then Reach could be the kind of low key hero the Magpies need right now.