Newcastle United's January business has been limited to a number of loan exits so far, despite the Magpies being linked with numerous players over the course of the month.

With less than two weeks remaining in the transfer window, now it is time for Benitez to start to get more realistic with his transfer targets to get a few new players through the door before the deadline.

It has been a successful season so far for Newcastle.

After a positive summer transfer window, Rafa Benitez has guided Newcastle to the summit of the Championship table with twenty games to play, although Brighton can go above them if the Seagulls win their game in hand.

Promotion is the minimum expectation so Benitez might look to bring in some players in these last few days of the window to give his side every hope of going straight back to the top flight.

Here are 3 deals that need to be sealed this week.

Andros Townsend

With Christian Atsu at the African Cup of Nations and Rolando Aarons out injured, Newcastle are a bit light in the wide areas.

Andros Townsend has been linked with a sensational return, just six months after leaving for Crystal Palace.

This would be a brilliant signing as the England international would add guaranteed goals, assists and excitement on the wings.

Sam Clucas

Another winger option Newcastle could explore is Hull City's Sam Clucas.

The talented midfielder is also versatile, and able to play in more central regions.

The 26-year-old has been a top performer for Hull but might be tempted to follow old team-mate, Mo Diame, to St James' Park.

James McCarthy

Newcastle could also do with another defensive midfielder to sit behind Jonjo Shelvey and rotate with Jack Colback and Isaac Hayden.

Everton outcast James McCarthy seems like the perfect man for the job.

The no-nonsense, tough tackling Republic of Ireland international is out of favour at Goodison Park but would be superb in the Championship.