Newsletter

Get your daily update and weekly newsletter by signing up today!

Transfer News

Italian claims Newcastle looking at Japanese answer to left-back problem

6 years ago
Share

Yuto Nagatomo could be on his way to Newcastle United according to reports from Italy.

The left-back is said to be considering is options after Inter Milan offered him a new contract, as the defender sees his current deal in June 2019.

Newcastle United always seem to be searching for a new left-back and Rafa Benitez was widely reported to be desperate to bring in a new first choice one in the summer.

However, after Paul Dummett was injured in the opening game against Tottenham, Rafa was still blocked from even bringing in Matt Targett on loan from Southampton, as the loan fee was said to be too much for the Newcastle hierarchy.

Rafa actually left Inter Milan only weeks before Yuto Nagatomo first arrived on loan in January 2011, the transfer becoming permanent in the summer of that year.

As well as West Brom and Burnley, Tuttomercato report that Rafa Benitez is also interested in a January move for the left-back.

Paul Dummett was originally due to be back for November but no updates on progress as yet. Even when is available, it is doubtful whether Dummett is a better option than the likes of central defender Chancel Mbemba who is filling in on the left. The defending is of a similar standard and arguably Mbemba gives a little bit more going forward.

Yuto Nagatomo has won almost 100 caps for Japan and is vastly experienced.

Recent seasons have seen him alternating between the starting eleven and the bench, with this season no different, four Serie A starts so far and three times named on the bench. His last club appearance before the international break was a 2-1 win over Achraf Lazaar’s Benevento.

Signings such as Jesus Gamez and Daryl Murphy have shown that Rafa Benitez is prepared to invest in experience, so interesting to see just who he goes for in January…resources permitting.

Share

If you would like to feature on The Mag, submit your article to contribute@themag.co.uk

Have your say

© 2024 The Mag. All Rights Reserved. Design & Build by Mediaworks