In a recent report, The Athletic revealed that Newcastle United are keeping tabs on Real Betis left-back Juan Miranda this summer. It has been stated that the Magpies have identified the Spanish defender as a transfer target for this ongoing window.
Miranda’s Impressive Form In La Liga Last Season
Miranda had a solid campaign at the Spanish club recently after he put in a handful of impressive displays on the left side of their backline. The 23-year-old found the back of the net on three occasions and earned five assists in 31 matches for his current club last season in various competitions.
The Olivares-born talent was a positive influence at both ends of the field as he averaged 1.1 tackles, 1.0 interceptions, 2.4 clearances, 1.0 shots and 1.0 key passes per 90 minutes in La Liga. He has even been tidy when distributing the ball from the left flank based on his pass success rate of 76.8% in the Spanish first division (stats via whoscored).
Miranda is under contract at Real Betis until the end of this campaign which could open the door for Newcastle to sign him on the cheap this month.
Is Miranda A Decent Option For Newcastle United?
Miranda is a tough-tackling full-back who can make a few timely interceptions for his team inside his half. He doesn’t hesitate to put his foot through the ball when the opposition are on the offensive.
The Spanish sensation can strike the ball with power from long range and has got the vision to orchestrate a few promising chances for his teammates in the final third. However, he needs to work on improving his dribbling ability.
Miranda will bring more quality and depth to Newcastle United boss Eddie Howe’s match-day squad. He might even help the Tyneside club challenge for some major trophies over the next few years.
At 23, Miranda will only get better in the coming years which makes him a great, long-term option for the Magpies to pursue in this ongoing transfer window. However, there are some question marks over whether he can adapt to the physicality and high intensity of Premier League football if Newcastle manage to bring him on board soon.
