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

Rafa Benitez says that Newcastle United are pushing to sign “three or four” new players in the next few days.

United have worked hard behind the scenes to try and get as many of their new additions on board before pre-season as possible – and Benitez feels that is close to bearing fruit.

Indeed United believe they will have at least one player added to their squad by the first week of July – which is just eight days away now.

Who are the players United are looking at – and is there any truth in a few of the rumours circulating at the moment?

Alvaro Arbeloa

33-year-old veteran defender is well-known to Benitez, who is looking to import some leadership into his squad.

There was a feeling last season that United lacked experience and know-how at key moments and Benitez has told the football board that he needs someone who can lead by example in the dressing room.

With Arbeloa’s CV – a European title, a World Cup and more than 150 appearances for Real Madrid – he would command immediate respect. Has certainly been mentioned in exchanges and while his wage demands would be high, he is a free agent and Newcastle could move quickly for him.

Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will start in 8 Cancel Play now

Nick Powell

Another free agent who has Championship experience. He spent last season at Hull and has been at Wigan in the second tier as well.

Blackburn Rovers have held talks with the 22-year-old but he has yet to commit and the midfielder has the potential to improve – if he can find focus and form next season.

Mehdi Abeid

A return for Abeid? The Algerian most certainly wants it and he’s available for £3million if Newcastle are minded to move for him again.

He has certainly improved for a season in Greece with Panathinaikos and feels he has unfinished business at St James’ Park.

Steven Caulker

Centre-back is exactly the kind of player Newcastle need: experienced, able to improve but also ready to hit the ground running next season.

The 24-year-old spent a spell at Liverpool last season and was at Southampton before that. Benitez feels they need another defender to compete with Jamaal Lascelles and Chancel Mbemba , and Fabricio Coloccini may leave.

Patrick Bamford

Bamford is considering options in Spain but he certainly fits the bill for Benitez.

The Chelsea striker knows that he needs games to progress and acknowledges that a season on the sidelines for Norwich and Crystal Palace has done him no good whatsoever. If Newcastle were to move, it wouldn’t be a loan move.

Ross McCormack

Fulham striker has a sizeable £15million release clause which has put off some suitors.

But Newcastle need someone who comes with a guarantee of goals and he’s another one who has been offered to them recently.

Lewis Cook

Leeds midfielder is a long-term United target and they were told last season that he’s available at the right price.

Newcastle enquired but thought he would cost too much. Bournemouth are interested and could offer Premier League football.