Newcastle United have identified a new right-back as their priority in final few days of the transfer window, according to the Mirror.
The newspaper claim on their website that the Magpies have switched their attention to their defence after completing the two signings of Allan Saint-Maximin and Joelinton.
The Mirror report that Steve Bruce is happy with his attacking options, with Dwight Gayle set to stay at St James’ Park, despite the Telegraph claiming the forward is in the middle of a three-club hunt including Leeds United, West Brom, and Stoke City.
Newcastle were recently reported by French outlet Courrier Picard to be set to complete a move for Amiens defender Emil Krafth this week.
OPINION
After a whirlwind couple of weeks at St James’ Park, it appears as if Newcastle and Bruce are both going towards being delighted with the business they have completed. It would make total sense that Bruce has switched his attention, with a new right-back looking like the final piece of the puzzle in the North East. With pace and power wanted in their squad, it appears strange that DeAndre Yedlin is not set to be used – especially after the American returned from injury on Monday. With Krafth expected through the door, the Swede is set to bring a sense of solidarity to Bruce’s squad. The 25-year-old averaged 1.6 tackles and 2.3 clearances each game last season according to WhoScored and makes up for his lack of attacking instinct with his defensive strength. Yedlin is surely set to play back-up should Krafth come in this week, and the American’s electrifying speed can be a big weapon coming off the bench at wing-back next season.
