This article is part of Football League World’s ‘The Verdict’ series, which provides personal opinions from the FLW writers regarding the latest breaking news, teams, players, managers, potential signings and more…

Sheffield United midfielder Sander Berge is reportedly on Newcastle United's list of January targets.

According to Sky Sports, Berge is high on Newcastle's list despite missing much of the season due to injury.

So, would he be a good signing? And do they need him?

Marcus Ally

At 23, with a contract running until the summer of 2024, Sander Berge could cost Newcastle a fair whack. The Norwegian has looked very good since joining Sheffield United but injuries have plagued him in the last couple of seasons.

Therefore, there are some concerns over his physicality and whether that suits him to playing in English football.

There is certainly room for him in the Magpies’ squad, the Tyneside club are clearly lacking inspiration from central areas with even summer signing Joe Willock struggling to assert himself this season.

It would have to be the right price to call this a good addition, because of the element of risk attached that Berge has only made 18 league starts since the beginning of last season.

Adam Jones 

This is probably one they should leave in January unless they can recruit him for well under his valuation.

Sheffield United didn't seem keen on lowering his £35m price tag in the summer - and considering the injury he's had up until this point - it would be a major risk to bring him in a time when Newcastle need as many options as possible to fight relegation.

There's no doubt he's a talented individual and at 23, there's plenty of time for him to fulfil his potential, but spending more than £20m at this stage would be nonsensical given the other areas they need to address.

They should definitely keep tabs on the Norwegian though and wait until the summer to see how he performs in the second half of this season because they have the finances to pay over the odds if he comes good. For now though, it's one to give a miss.