OPINION
Newcastle United boss Rafael Benitez is desperate to recruit a full-back this winter, but will realistically know that he will not have an abundance of funds available for him to bring in many of his preferred candidate.
A move for Carl Jenkinson could be the perfect solution to his defensive problems, with the forgotten man likely to be available for a half-decent price this month.
The once-capped England international picked up only his fifth appearance of the season in Arsenal’s FA Cup clash with Blackpool – and even then that came as a result of a last minute injury to Laurent Koscielny.
Evidently, the 26-year-old is surplus to requirements at the Emirates, but has plenty of Premier League experience and could make for an ideal signing in January.
The Gunners have sent Jenkinson out for temporary spells before, but having been cast out of the first team almost completely this season, a permanent exit surely beckons.
The full-back is versatile and keen on getting forward – exactly the qualities that the Magpies should be looking for – and would be the perfect cut-price alternative to some of the Toon Army’s purported targets.
Furthermore, his experience of the division is exactly what manager Benitez is looking for, with an ability to compete with both Paul Dummett and DeAndre Yedlin on either flank – something Javier Manquillo has failed to do with much conviction.
Jenkinson needs playing time. Newcastle need a full back. Arsenal need the money.
It is a move which suits all parties.