Newcastle United Transfers: 8 Players Benitez Must Sign This Summer

8. Lewis Holtby

Lewis Holtby looked set to become a major Premier League star when Tottenham Hotspur signed him in 2013, but it didn't work out. The former German international struggled to make the grade at White Hart Lane, and was loaned to Fulham in 2014, where coach Felix Magath questioned his fighting spirit in their unsuccessful relegation battle.

He returned to the Bundesliga with Hamburg for the 2014-15 campaign, and has been there ever since. Last season saw him start 29 games for the sleeping giants, and Holtby has recently been linked with a Premier League return, with Bournemouth seemingly set to rival Newcastle for his signature.

Given that he's reportedly available for his £5 million, Holtby would be a smart pick-up for the Magpies. He's by no means prolific, but Newcastle are desperately short of creativity in the middle when Jonjo Shelvey is out. Holtby is just as capable playing behind the striker as he is operating in a deeper role, making him a versatile squad rotation option for Rafa Benitez, who'll be looking to acquire at least one or two creators this summer.