Newcastle is willing to allow two more senior players to move this month after revealing last night that Javi Manquillo became the first permanent transfer of the January window, joining Celta Vigo.
The club is “listening to offers” for Matt Ritchie and Emil Krafth, according to Mark Douglas. It’s thought that a few of our bench players are being floated as a means of raising money, and late exits will probably be necessary if we’re to spend this month without going above Premier League profit and sustainability guidelines.
In the league this season, Krafth has made four appearances, all from the bench. With the acquisition of Tino Livramento in the summer, Krafth is now the third-choice right defender. The Swedish international signed a contract with us in 2019, but it expires this summer.
It is impossible to overstate Ritchie’s extensive tenure with the Magpies. He helped us return to the Premier League at our first attempt after joining in the summer following our relegation, and he has contributed to several special moments, such as the game-winning goal in our most recent league victory over Man City. The Scottish player has been enrolled in the club’s coaching badge program, however he was said to be leaving in 2022.
We can spread incoming transfer agreements over a few years, so moves for Krafth and Ritchie would allow us to invest a little bit this window and open up spots in the Premier League squad.
In recent days, the Toon have declined proposals for Callum Wilson and Kieran Trippier.