Newcastle United boss Rafael Benitez is keen to rejuvenate his squad with significant additions in the summer and reports suggest the Magpies are set to secure a major coup in the market.
The Sun reports that the Tyneside giants lead Manchester United and Real Madrid in the chase for 21-year-old goalkeeper Karlo Letica, who was scouted by the Magpies in action for Hajduk Split last week.
Croatia U21 international Letica is regarded as one of the finest young goalkeepers in Europe and the race for his signature is fierce but Newcastle have an advantage, as he’s eyeing first-team football that cannot be assured at United or Madrid.
As such, he’s reported to have snubbed the advances of the two European giants and it gives Newcastle encouragement in the market, although a potential signing may mean Newcastle elect not to make Martin Dubravka’s loan stint at St. James’ Park permanent.
Benitez doesn’t believe that Letica is ready for first-team football and is plotting to send the youngster on-loan to the Championship, which may make it difficult to secure funds for a deal as the priority will be landing players ready for the senior squad.
