Newcastle United are reportedly closing in on a deal for Atletico Madrid full-back Javier Manquillo as the Magpies look to add more reinforcements to the side following the departure of Vurnon Anita to Leeds United. The Spanish international hasn’t been a regular in Sunderland’s squad last season and witnessed the relegation of the Black Cats helplessly. However, his brief impressive displays did catch a lot of attention.
Newcastle United have tried to be vehemently active this transfer season, although to little effect as they could hardly pick up the targets they had intended to. Following their successful campaign in the Championship that saw them winning the league, Rafael Benitez has a tougher job of upgrading the squad to the Premier League level now.
Of course, defending remains the biggest target as a stronger backline would help one stay in the game for a long time especially against bigger sides. The likes of Middlesbrough, Burnley, Bournemouth and more used these tactics to brilliant effect last season against Manchester United, Liverpool and more, and Newcastle plan to do exactly that.
With a better forward line to strike on the counter, Benitez is expected to approach the season with more confidence if he manages to bring together a strong defence. Newcastle United already have the likes of Jesus Gamez and DeAndre Yedlin on the side, who fill in that right back’s role competently and is also a perfect blend of youth and experience; but what Manquillo will bring at St. James’ Park is versatility.
The full-back can play on both the flanks both on the defensive and offensive positions with equal ease. At 23, he has all the energy and pace in the world and he uses it to the maximum. Benitez can use the player in many positions as and when needed and he isn’t expected to disappoint. Although he could score just one goal last season, he didn’t get many chances under David Moyes, and Sunderland’s toothless strike force further failed his cause.
He has played as a left back, a right back, left midfield and also a right midfield. Mostly a substitute, he is expected to stay as a backup this time too. If reports are to be believed, Atletico Madrid are willing to let him leave this summer. And the fact that this decision comes despite the club serving a transfer ban and unable to get more player for a season, indicates that he has lost the trust of Diego Simeone.
Spain’s news outlet, Mundo Deportivo claims that the player would make the uncharacteristic move from Wearside to Tyneside for s £4.5 million fee that will keep him in England for four years.
