OPINION
Newcastle United manager Rafael Benitez has been forced to work his magic in the transfer window since joining the Magpies, and his contacts have meant he has rarely made a bad decision.
Other than the likes of Achraf Lazaar and Matz Sels, both of which were major flops at St James’ Park, the Spaniard’s record has been relatively decent, with even Joselu and Javier Manquillo offering more good than bad to the side despite their struggles.
He has also done a decent job of keeping the players he wants on Tyneside and getting what seem to be good deals for those he lets go, highlighting his ability not just as a manager but as a negotiator.
However, it seems as though he has made a rare transfer blunder, and it could well be a decision he pulls a shock u-turn over.
Spanish publication Marca claim that Newcastle are one of a number of clubs tracking Swiss defender Kevin Mbabu ahead of a potential swoop this summer, and his name will be a familiar one to the Toon Army considering he only left the club permanently a year ago.
The versatile defender spent four years with the Magpies, making five appearances for the senior side, but found himself out of favour under Benitez, who shipped him out first on loan and then permanently.
It looks as though that was a mistake, as the 23-year-old has flourished at Young Boys, and 12 months on from his St James’ Park departure, he could be set to reunite in the north east of England.
It would be a massive shock to see him back in black and white but Benitez is not one to cut his nose of to spite his face, and if he feels Mbabu is a worthwhile capture, he will welcome him back with open arms.