Newcastle United are leading the hunt to sign Bristol City left back Joe Bryan this summer, according to reliable journalist Alan Nixon.
The Sun reporter, who has a proven track record when it comes to the transfer market, has claimed on his personal Twitter account that St James’ Park is his most likely destination this summer, having been probed by fans over where he could end up.
The 24-year-old, who stands at just 5’5″ (source: Transfermarkt), is a versatile flyer who can also play on the left wing, and proved his attacking threat last season by netting seven goals across all competitions for the Championship outfit, as well as chipping in with three assists.
Good move for Newcastle United?
Last summer saw Javier Manquillo brought in to try and cover both the left and the right flanks in defence, but what he had in versatility, he lacked in quality, and found himself behind Paul Dummett on the left and DeAndre Yedlin on the right when fully fit.
The Welsh international is very much Rafael Benitez’s first choice in the left hand role but backup is crucial, and Bryan could offer the Spanish boss what he wants.
At 24, he has plenty of room to grow but has the experience to be an immediate success, and with a dearth of left sided talent out in the window, he could be a savvy signing.
This is Futbol rating: 7.5/10
Likely to happen?
The Magpies are said to be leading the charge, but it is as yet unclear who might be following closely in their footsteps.
His asking price is probably within Newcastle’s budget, and while he might not be the most exciting signing, it does tick a lot of boxes for Benitez.
This is Futbol rating: 7/10