Newcastle United have plenty of work to do this summer to bolster their long-term standing in the Premier League, after a season where the Magpies have struggled for stability and consistency.
The lack of a top-class striker in front of goal has been obvious throughout the captain, with top-scorer Dwight Gayle hitting just five goals this season and the squad hitting just 31 goals between them the second-lowest amount in the current top 12 in the Premier League.
As such, Rafael Benitez is expected to bolster his forward options this summer and German outlet Kicker state Newcastle are interested in the services of Mainz’s Japanese striker Yoshinori Muto.
Mainz are currently embroiled in a fierce relegation battle in the Bundesliga but have seen Muto excel in front of goal this season, scoring seven goals in the league.
Out of contract in 2019, Mainz may be forced to sell this summer, particularly if they fail in their quest to avoid relegation, and Newcastle want to bring the 19-cap Japan international to the Premier League.
Muto, last capped by his nation in October, faces a battle to force his way into his nation’s World Cup squad this summer, ahead of clashes with Colombia, Senegal and Poland.
