Report: Newcastle eye Loris Benito on a free transfer

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The Sun have claimed Newcastle United will try to solve their left-back woes once again this summer by luring Young Boys star Loris Benito to St. James’ Park this summer.

Last January, Newcastle signed Antonio Barreca on loan from AS Monaco, but the Italian youth international has managed just one substitute appearance against Tottenham back in January.

Since then, he has failed to play a single minute with Rafa Benitez preferring the likes of Javi Manquillo, Paul Dummett and Matt Ritchie on the left side of the defence.

Benito, 27, is one of the first names on the team sheet for Young Boys, playing alongside Kevin Mbabu in defence. The three-time Switzerland international played every minute of Young Boys’ Champions League campaign.

His contract with Young Boys, though, is about to expire – meaning Newcastle can land him on a free. But Newcastle are not alone in their pursuit, with Watford, Burnley, Inter Milan and Bordeaux interested in the ex-Benfica ace.

TBR’s view

Newcastle desperately need a left-sided defender and Benito should be at the top of their shortlist – especially because he is available on a free transfer.

Owner Mike Ashley is much more likely to ratify a move for the defender given that he costs nothing. He has shown in the Champions League this season that he is better than the Young Boys.

Landing him would not only see Newcastle sign a top player, but also save money for the transfer kitty.