Newcastle United manager Rafael Benitez is keen to bring in three new players in the January transfer window, according to the Chronicle.

What's the word?

The lack of signings in the summer led to rumours that Benitez was considering his position at St James' Park.

The Spaniard has remained at the club, but now attentions have turned to the next batch of potential new arrivals.

The Chronicle reports that the former Liverpool box is looking for a left-back, a striker and a number 10.

Due to Mike Ashley's decision to put the club up for sale, it is unknown whether or not there will be a vast amount of funds come January.

The publication claims that Benitez is preparing one transfer wishlist that would include a significant budget and another that would be more limited in terms of money.

How important is this window for Newcastle?

At the moment, the North-East outfit are doing well in terms of results and currently sit eighth in the Premier League table.

The team are unbeaten in their last three top-flight outings and have only suffered defeat once in their last seven.

There are some problem areas within the squad, though, particularly the left-back role.

Paul Dummett has been sidelined since August with a hamstring injury, and his back-ups have struggled to impress.

If Benitez is afforded funds to bring in some reinforcements, then it will help the team continue their fight for survival, but if the manager is let down, it could affect the second half of the season.

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