Newcastle have launched a deadline day bid for Napoli goalkeeper Rafael, according to a BBC journalist.
BBC World Service broadcaster Steve Crossman claimed on his personal Twitter account on Thursday that the Magpies had tabled a last-ditch offer for Rafael, 27, as Rafa Benitez continues his search for a new shot-stopper with just hours to go until the cut-off is reached.
Everton have made a bid for Napoli defender Ivan Strinic and Newcastle have made a bid for Napoli keeper Rafael Cabral
— Steve Crossman (@Steve_Crossman) August 31, 2017
Three-times Brazil international Rafael has made just 45 appearances for Napoli over the past four years since he signed for them in 2013 from Santos, with only two of them coming last season as he played as back-up to former Magpies target Pepe Reina.
Rafael isn’t the only Brazilian linked with a move to Newcastle this summer with the Telegraph reporting that Chelsea youngster Kenedy is closing on a switch to St. James’ Park.
Good move for Newcastle?
Rafael is a good goalkeeper and you have to have some quality about you to be able to earn several caps for Brazil. However Newcastle have a good number of shot-stoppers already on their books and unless one, or even two, leave then this move won’t make sense. Rafael hasn’t played regular first-team football in a long time whereas the likes of Karl Darlow, Tim Krul and Rob Elliot have. He could turn out to be a shrewd addition though.
This is Futbol rating: 7/10
Likely to happen?
Benitez has been widely reported to be in the hunt for a new goalkeeper this summer and he may have to get people out of the door before he brings someone in. It remains to be seen how much the Magpies will pay for Rafael, but it is likely that he could be brought in on the cheap as he is only the back-up option at Napoli. However that could be exactly why the Italian side might not want him to leave as they’d be in a late panic to find a new ‘keeper.
This is Futbol rating: 5/10