Emil Krafth has admitted he has “no idea” if he will stay at Newcastle United past the summer.
What’s the latest Newcastle United transfer news?
The signing of Kieran Trippier over the course of the January transfer window appeared to have pushed the Sweden international further down the pecking order.
With Javier Manquillo starting 14 of the 18 games even before Trippier’s arrival, Krafth was second-choice at best. Indeed, both Jacob Murphy and Ryan Fraser are also able to operate at right-wing back, should Newcastle opt to change system.
Injuries to both Manquillo and Trippier, however, have allowed Krafth back into the team. Five of his 11 starts this season have come since February’s win over Aston Villa, the game in which Newcastle lost both other right-backs.
Should Newcastle keep Krafth?
While some of his recent performances have been fairly promising, it’s hard to make a case to keep him long-term.
Compared to Trippier and Manquillo, he averages fewer tackles (3.5 to 2.1 and 1.3 respectively, via WhoScored) per game, while he also gives away the highest number of fouls over the same period (1.2).
Frankly, had it not been for injuries, it’s hard to see where the 27-year-old would have got a look in.
Previously, Krafth has been linked with a move to İstanbul Başakşehir while The Sun’s Alan Nixon claimed in the summer of 2021 that the club were actively looking to sell.
What has Krafth said about his future?
Currently away on international duty, Krafth was speaking to Swedish outlet Fotbollskanalen.
“No idea actually,” he said of his future.
“I focus on being here and now. I have a contract with the club. Everything else that happens will happen, nothing I can influence. I have a contract. If something happens, I will have to take it.”
How long does Krafth have left on his contract?
A £5m signing from Amiens in 2019, Krafth has just over a year to run on a deal that expires in June 2023.
According to SpotRac data, the Sweden international is paid in the region of £57k-per-week.
