One of Newcastle’s top priorities this transfer window was to strengthen both flanks in the full-back positions, and today could see them complete just that as Emil Krafth looks set to sign.
Swedish newspaper Expressen claims the Amiens right-back will undergo a medical today, before signing a four year contract at St James’ Park.
Newcastle have been trying to tie down a deal for the Swedish international for the past week, and with the player expressing his desperation to make the move, it was almost inevitable that a deal would be agreed before Thursday’s transfer deadline in England.
Full-back is an area that plagued Rafa Benitez during his time at Newcastle, and he was never able to strengthen it to a standard he would have been happy with.
It is ironic, therefore, that within a month of being head coach, both the left- and right-back positions have seen new players arrive, and it now looks to be a strong area for for us, with competition on both flanks – regardless of whether a wing-back or orthodox full-back system is used – only being a positive this season.
Competition for places can only benefit Newcastle
Krafth’s imminent signing should also bring the best out of DeAndre Yedlin, who – with only the disappointing Javier Manquillo as a realistic challenger for his spot – has been too sure of his place in the past.
Having squad depth and competition for every position is something the club should always strive for, but for too long it has not been the case on Tyneside.
That seems to be changing, and although fans will question why it was not the case while Benitez was at the club, it is better late than never.
Hopefully Newcastle will still have a deal or two up their sleeves before the window closes, but it is likely that there will be a number of outgoings in the final hours of the window.
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