According to the Chronicle, Newcastle United will ‘listen to offers’ for Javier Manquillo this summer – with one of Benitez’s top priorities set to be the signing of a new right-back.
The Spaniard only signed at St James’ Park last July – meaning he’s been at the club less than 12 months – however it seems Rafa may have already seen enough.
He’s filled in at left-back and right-back throughout last season, but he’s failed to convince in either position. He’s fairly comfortable on the ball, but has looked very poor defensively – which can’t come as any real surprise given he was one of several bargain basement buys Benitez was forced into making last summer.
Here’s a snippet from the Chronicle on the situation at right-back:
“United want to bring in more competition in the right-back department with DeAndre Yedlin the only recognised senior player in this position.
“United do still have Javier Manquillo on their books but the utility man played on the left-hand side for most of last season, and Newcastle will also listen to offers for the ex-Liverpool man.”
Yes he’s versatile, but with Rafa clearly keen to sign added competition at right-back and left-back, he’s one of many players who looks set to be sacrificed this summer.
The question is, will there be any takers?