Newcastle Transfers: Former Sunderland Defender To Join Magpies?
Former Sunderland man ready to sign for north-east rivals.
Newcastle are closing in on the signing of Atletico Madrid full-back Javier Manquillo, according to the Evening Chronicle.
Manager Rafael Benitez has been in the market for defensive cover this summer as his Championship-winning side prepare for their first season back in the top flight.
And Manquillo - having impressed last year on loan at north-east rivals Sunderland - is said to be on the Spaniard's radar.
It is reported that the Magpies have agreed a fee with Atletico for the right-sided defender, who is set to become the Toon's fourth signing of the window.
Benitez has already strengthened his hand with the acquisitions of wide-man Christian Atsu and centre-back Florian Lejeune, with a deal for Norwich City's England U21 winger Jacob Murphy thought to be close.
The ex-Liverpool boss is now publicly leaning on Newcastle owner Mike Ashley to stump up more funds, after being priced out of several big transfers earlier in the summer.
The 57-year-old is quoted as saying: “Hopefully, Mike can keep his word and we can do what we want to do.”
A centre-forward to provide competition for last season's top scorer, Dwight Gayle, is said to be the club's next priority.