Newcastle are looking at making a bid for CSKA Moscow’s £26.5 million rated right-back, Mario Fernandez, a report states.
The Daily Star claims Newcastle are considering bringing the 28-year-old to Tyneside to ease their full-back issues.
Whether Mike Ashley would sanction a big deal for a player outside his age specifications will depend on Rafa Benitez’s contract negotiations.
It is an open secret that the Magpies want to strengthen their full-back positions.
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Doubts remain over the defensive side of DeAndre Yedlin’s game. While Javier Manquillo has consistently struggled to find form.
Newcastle hope to beat Atletico Madrid to Fernandez’s signature
Despite interest from Atletico Madrid, no bid has been made for the defender.
Newcastle could make a move, hoping to take advantage of the Spanish side’s hesitation.
Fernandez played for Russia at the last World Cup. And although making one appearance for the Brazil national side, he became a Russian national by Presidential decree.
He would certainly be a huge improvement in an area that Newcastle have long struggled.
With competition need on both flanks, it is definitely the type of deal the Magpies need to advance to the next level.
Regardless of Rafa’s contract position, Newcastle need to approach targets now, or risk being left behind.
But in the meantime, they must trust Benitez’s list of targets and press on with transfer plans.