Between now and the end of the transfer window, Newcastle United want to sign a left-back.
That suddenly appears to be the priority for Eddie Howe, as the Toon boss aims to add one more player to his squad.
However, that is easier said than done due to financial fair play restrictions. Newcastle are going to have to be very clever to get one more deal over the line. It has been speculated that they could utilise the loan market and agree a temporary deal with an option or obligation to buy next year.
The Magpies have a few players on their radar, three of which play in the Premier League. Newcastle are back in the mix for Chelsea’s Lewis Hall, whose loan move to Crystal Palace has been put on hold.
Another option from Chelsea is Marc Cucurella. He appears to be out of favour at Stamford Bridge, but it feels like his wages would be an issue for Newcastle.
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Then there is Kieran Tierney, who Newcastle have contacted about a move to St James’ Park. But it will be another tough deal to do, as Arsenal are looking for the 26-year-old to leave permanently.
It is very difficult for Howe to get the player he wants, but now the club appear to have another option on their radar.
Newcastle eye Real Betis defender Juan Miranda
According to the Athletic, Newcastle have been following Juan Miranda all summer.
He is a 23-year-old left-back who plays for Real Betis, and came through the Barcelona academy. It was there that he received praise from football icon Lionel Messi.
Back in 2018, Messi praised Barcelona’s decision to call Miranda and Rique Puig up to the first-team, with the forward eager for the Catalan club to get back to producing their own talent.
Sadly for Miranda, he only made one La Liga appearance for Barcelona. Now he is with Betis, and is being linked with a move away.
Any move would be complicated by Barcelona, however. That is because they have a 40% sell-on clause after selling him to Betis. They also have first refusal, meaning they can re-sign him if they wish.
That sell-on clause could be a major stumbling block. A similar clause in Tino Livramento’s contract is what delayed his move from Southampton to Newcastle.
But Miranda is at least another option for the Magpies, and someone who the club clearly rate very highly. He would be the biggest risk out of the four options, but could perhaps be the most attainable if the sell-on clause is not too problematic.
He is certainly one to keep an eye on.