Rafael Benitez is still trying to mould his Newcastle side into his own as he aims to secure promotion back to the top-flight.

The past few months have witnessed many players come and go at St. James' Park and the recruitment process must continue to guarantee promotion. Nonetheless, if Benitez brings more players into the fold, certain names must be sold.

Unfortunately for the Spaniard, one summer transfer window isn't enough for the Toon to reestablish themselves and the ex-Liverpool and Chelsea gaffer should be aware of this.

One place Benitez should send his players to is China. Unlike in England, competitive fast paced football may not occur, but the lure of big wages and a reduced schedule could be more attractive for some.

In recent weeks, Chelsea midfielder Oscar has made the move to Shanghai SIPG and other players to follow suit.

Here are FIVE players Newcastle should be looking to sell to China this January.

Cheick Tiote

Ivorian midfielder Tiote has fallen out of favour with Benitez and his career at St. James' Park looks set to come to an end.

With almost seven years of service on the banks of the River Tyne, he has put in some memorable performances but now must be the time for all parties to separate.

Tiote once attracted interest from Chinese Super League clubs, and Newcastle will be hopeful they'll come looking again.

Daryl Murphy

Republic of Ireland striker Murphy has failed to appear for Newcastle in the league since making his summer move from Ipswich. Injuries, allied to him being unfancied by Benitez, must make him favourable for departure at the club.

Murphy has proven his credentials in the Championship, and a move to China would likely see him restore that goalscoring touch once again.

Chancel Mbemba

Congo defender Mbemba has struggled to cope with life in England since his move to Newcastle almost 18 months ago.

Regularly caught out of position, bullied by opposition defenders and failing to provide consistent performances have proved the downfall of Mbemba.

With the finances available in China, the 22-year-old defender could give the Magpies a profit on the £8million fee paid in July 2015.

Massadio Haidara

Another young defender that hasn't made the grade at Newcastle. The former Nancy left-back has failed to record a single minute of football this season and life under Benitez doesn't seem to be set to become any easier for him.

Four years since joining the club, Haidara has made little impact and now he must contemplate his future at the club.

Newcastle should be looking to the Far East to bring in an enormous fee for Haidara.

Ayoze Perez

Spanish striker Ayoze Perez has struggled to find his goalscoring feet in the Championship and a return of just three goals in 16 sixteen games has witnessed his stock fall a little.

Benitez should be considering selling Perez to China as he looks to clear space and money for wages.

A silky attacking player, he's sure to attract suitors from the Far East, who, typically, spend the bulk of their money on final third players.