Newcastle representatives in Spain as clubs battle for summer bargain - Report

Newcastle United have a number of squad issues to address this summer, whether we've qualified for European competition or not.

A new goalkeeper feels essential, and a young centre-back may be on the agenda, while our lack of quality on the right wing remains an issue, alongside a striker department that's anything but settled despite a £129m spend on Yoane Wissa and Nick Woltemade.

Then there is the small issue of full-back. This department has been short on depth down both flanks, not to mention that two of our senior options - Kieran Trippier and Emil Krafth - are out of contract at the end of the season.

With that in mind, a familiar name has been linked with a potential move to St James' Park once again this week, offering a potential bargain option Newcastle may be wise to explore.

Toon eyeing soon-to-be free agent?

Celta Vigo defender Oscar Mingueza has attracted interest from Newcastle United with club representatives attending their match in Girona on Sunday, according to TEAMtalk.

Mingueza is out of contract this summer and has also received attention from other Premier League clubs including Aston Villa and Everton, who also had representatives in attendance as Celta won 2-1 with Mingueza registering an assist.

The former Barcelona defender has been capped four times for the national side and has impressed for Celta Vigo this season - scoring once and assisting twice to help put Celta sixth in La Liga.

TEAMtalk also report that there is widespread interest from across Europe including sides in Italy and Germany who are monitoring the situation as the race to sign the defender heats up.

The 26-year-old primarily operates at right back or right wing-back, but has been known to be versatile and play across a number of positions in the defence.

Mingueza ticks plenty of boxes

A versatile player such as Mingueza who can play across the defence fits the profile of player Howe likes at the club.

Dan Burn, Tino Livramento, Emil Krafth and Kieran Trippier have often been deployed in varying defensive positions throughout Howe’s time on Tyneside.

It is unsurprising to see Newcastle show interest in Mingueza as the Toon head into the summer window with uncertainty over the future of Livramento, who continues to be linked with a move to Manchester City.

Earlier in the week TEAMtalk reported City could be willing to pay £70 million for Livramento - which would be a record fee for a full back.

Trippier and Krafth’s contracts are both due to expire in June and there has been no indication that they will be renewed.

After the disruption of last year’s summer window, United will be hoping the appointment of Ross Wilson as Sporting Director can help Newcastle get their business done early this year