If Newcastle United’s cup double header taught us anything, it’s that the gulf in quality between the first team and their backup options has become too great to maintain.

The Magpies convincingly saw off Leicester City to reach their first semi-final for the best part of two decades, just days after the second string limped out of the FA Cup with a toothless performance at Sheffield Wednesday.

Defeat at Hillsborough felt like a final opportunity for the likes of Jamal Lewis and Matt Ritchie, and despite the first team picking up the pieces in the Carabao Cup days later, it’s become clear that competition for places needs to be stronger if the club are to continue their rise long-term.

With the January transfer window in full swing, it’s likely we’ll see new faces to add quality to the squad sooner rather than later - and the rumour mill has certainly been churning. Now it’s up to you to assess Newcastle’s transfer targets and decide who’s a priority and who the club should steer clear of.

Youssoufa Moukoko is perhaps the most exciting name on the list, with the 18-year-old looking more and more likely to secure a big move when his contract expires this summer. The Germany international is one of the hottest prospects in Europe, with former teammate Erling Haaland even labelling him "the biggest talent in the world".

He isn’t the only teenager on United’s rumoured shortlist, with Real Valladolid’s Ivan Fresneda linked with a big money move to Tyneside. Familiar names like Leicester duo James Maddison and Youri Tielemans also make the list.

Who do you think Newcastle should prioritise this month? And who wouldn’t you touch with a barge pole? Use our Rank Your Targets tool above to find out, and let us know what you think in the comments below…

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