A solution to two problems?

We keep hearing that Newcastle United are looking at players to bring in during this transfer window.

As yet though, apart from Hatem Ben Arfa of course, the search for new blood has proved fruitless.

We have had certain hints from Alan Pardew though regarding what kind of positions he is looking to strengthen, those being left-back and right-wing. It would appear that a striker, which was a priority earlier on in the window, is no longer of paramount importance, so the attention can be focused on the two positions which we know are being looked at. Who would you pick to fill the gaps? Here are my ideas...

Patrick van Aanholt.

The young Dutch left-back spent a portion of last season on loan with us, and the lad seemed to enjoy it. Perhaps he could be persuaded to come back?

Van the man would be on reasonable wages and would offer reliable cover and competition for Jose Enrique. He would also be able to cover the left wing if needed and would be available for a fair fee. I'm not sure whether Chelsea would allow the lad to leave Stamford Bridge though.

The problem with left-back though is that it is going to be hard to find someone who will be happy to sit behind Enrique in the pecking order as, being realistic, well struggle to find anyone anywhere near Jose's level who will be happy to play second fiddle.

Niko Kranjcar.

With Wayne Routledge seemingly on the move, I'd like think that the club have a replacement lined up.

Shaun Wright-Phillips is rumoured to be interesting Newcastle, which wouldn't necessarily be a bad move, but I can think of other players I would prefer to see in a black and white shirt before Wright-Phillips.

Step forward Niko Kranjcar, who would appear to be approaching the end of his shelf life at Tottenham.

The Croatian midfielder can play right wing, but he can also play in various other positions across the midfield. He is a very very good technical player and is younger than Wright-Phillips. A fee of £2 million has been mentioned, which would be great, but I can't see it. Put simply, Tottenham don't sell their players on the cheap.

So there you go. Two new players that would address two issues that Alan Pardew has said he has.

Obviously these are just my recommendations like as I hold no power at St James' Park, but can you think of any more suggestions?

Who do you think we should go for?