Get the latest NUFC transfer and takeover news straight to your inbox for FREE by signing up to our newsletter Subscribe Thank you for subscribing We have more newsletters Show me See our privacy notice Invalid Email

Newcastle United are believed to be trying to clear the decks in time for the start of the January transfer window .

With the prospect of a takeover deal dragging on, Rafa Benitez must look to raise funds and free up some of the wage budget to give himself the best chance of improving the current squad.

Benitez is hoping that Chelsea make progress in the January trading period in order to bring in long-term loan target Kenedy from Stamford Bridge.

But United will also look to get some outgoing business done too with Benitez knowing he will only be handed a limited transfer spending pot at the start of 2018.

Newcastle will listen to offers for Henri Saivet , Mo Diame, Massadio Haidara, Jack Colback and Rolando Aarons.

They are also expected to loan out Freddie Woodman and Jamie Sterry in January, while news of Alex Gillead’s next career step is expected soon with the talented youngster spending the first half of the season with Bradford City.

Benitez is keen to bring in a new striker, new senior goalkeeper and cover in the full-back positions as the Magpies find themselves engulfed in a relegation battle.

Benitez, like the fans, is waiting for news of the takeover deal, and while PCP Capital Partners are prepared to back Newcastle in the window they are waiting for acceptance on their offer.

Mike Ashley is currently out of the UK and not due back until the new year.

However, the sale talks continue between the legal teams of both parties.