Report: Newcastle targeting Atletico's Martins, Monaco's Barreca

Manager Rafa Benitez's frustration over Newcastle United's transfer policy could soon be alleviated with the possible arrival of two players this month.

Newcastle are attempting to add reinforcements after placing bids on Altetico Madrid winger Gelson Martins and AS Monaco defender Antonio Barreca, according to Luke Edwards of The Telegraph.

Edwards reports that Newcastle are aiming to sign the pair on loan, and the club hopes to complete the deals by the end of the week.

News of Newcastle's pursuit of new players comes a day after Benitez reportedly reached a breaking point over the club's transfer policy and he intends to leave the team once the season ends.

Newcastle was reportedly the front-runners to sign Paraguayan midfielder Miguel Almiron, but talks have stalled, with the Premier League side unable reach an agreement with Atlanta United over a transfer fee. It's believed that the offer is still on the table if Newcastle is willing to meet Atlanta's asking price of £25 million.

Matins, who joined Atletico from Sporting CP last summer, could be a tricky player for the Magpies to sign because he's been linked with a move to AS Monaco.

Meanwhile, Barreca may be a more likely option, as the Italian defender has struggled to break into Monaco's first team since his £9 million transfer from Torino last summer.

Manager Thierry Henry is reportedly allowing Barreca to leave this month, and agreeing to terms is all that's preventing his move to Newcastle.