Medical all-but-done: Newcastle close in on sixth summer signing – report

Tue 15 August 2017 12:58, UK

By Abigail Withey

Newcastle United are set to confirm Stoke City striker Joselu as their sixth summer signing on Tuesday, but boss Rafa Benitez has his sights on securing more recruits, according to a recent report.

The Chronicle has revealed that despite almost finalising a deal for 27-year-old forward the Magpies’ boss is focused on potentially signing four new players before transfer deadline day.

It is understood that Joselu completed the first part of his medical on Monday and all that remains is for paperwork and formalities to be completed as well as the final part of his physical for Benitez to officially land his man.

The newspaper claims that the former Liverpool boss wants to sign a new goalkeeper, after missing out on Manchester City’s Willy Caballero to Chelsea, as well as a new midfielder and more defensive cover.

The report details a number of players who are potentially set for an exit over the coming days if a club can be found for them which includes Emmanuel Riviere, Massadio Haidara, Tim Krul and Jack Colback.

Benitez will be keen to strengthen his side following a disappointing 2-0 defeat to Tottenham during their return to the top flight after a season in the Championship.

Football Insider verdict

After their unimpressible performance against Spurs, it’s unsurprising that Benitez is focusing on signing as many players as he can before the end of the transfer window. The Toon boss will need to focus on his defence after Paul Dummett went off injured after just a few minutes of playing time followed by new signing Florian Lejeune limping off the pitch later on in the first half. Benitez has vented his frustration surrounding the club’s lack of activity in the transfer window, and if the Tyneside squad continue to perform how they did during their opening game of the Premier League then Benitez’ position at the club could be in jeopardy.