Rafa Benitez’s hunt for a full-back appears to be nearing its conclusion after DeAndre Yedlin landed in Newcastle yesterday evening to complete a rumoured £5 million move to Tyneside, but it could also potentially be a year-long loan according to reports.
A Twitter user caught Yedlin on video in arrivals as he looks set to complete his move to the Magpies.
The 23-year-old impressed in the Premier League on loan at North East rivals Sunderland last season, so will doubtless prove an impressive acquisition for Newcastle.
The highlight of Yedlin’s game is his attacking prowess and raw speed, far outpacing most players down the wing. He also has an eye for a cross and rarely drifts out of games.
That being said, the defensive side of his game still needs refinement despite considerably improving in that area during his spell at the Black Cats.
“He’s becoming more mature, he’s become even stronger, more confident” said national team boss Jurgen Klinsmann. “On the tactical side of the game he’s learned a lot.”
Yedlin will provide reinforcement in the position soon to be vacated by Daryl Janmaat, as Sky Sports report that the Dutchman is closing in on a £7.5 million move to Watford.
Janmaat signed from Feyenoord in 2014 for £5 million, making 78 appearances in that time. He has been an instrumental part of the Newcastle team ever since, but Premier League football could prove too tempting for the right-back to resist.
New manager Walter Mazzarri is looking too sure up his defence after a poor start to the season and with Janmaat having proved his quality in the Premier League, he seems like an opportune target for the Italian.
Janmaat is regarded as a very solid defender who is more than capable on the attack as well, scoring twice and assisting four goals last season.
While Janmaat will undoubtedly be missed on Tyneside, DeAndre Yedlin could prove a more than capable replacement, and £7.5 million is a significant return on the club’s investment.
Newcastle’s 2-0 victory over Cheltenham Town qualifies them for the third round of the EFL Cup despite four injuries to the squad in the process.
The third round sees the Premier League big-hitters enter the draw.
The next round could see Newcastle face Manchester City, Arsenal, Tottenham Hotspur, Manchester United or champions Leicester City, as well as one of the 24 teams that will progress from the second round.
The draw will take place at 10pm tonight after the remaining second-round draws.
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Will also writes for Football Ticket Net, his choice for Newcastle tickets.