Premier League duo Newcastle United and Fulham were both linked with Manchester United right-back Antonio Valencia over the weekend.
Manchester United defender Antonio Valencia is out of contract at the end of the season and, according to the Sun, Newcastle United and Fulham are willing to offer him a fresh start this month.
The long-serving Ecuadorian has been at Old Trafford for the last ten years, having signed from Wigan Athletic in 2009 for £17 million (the Guardian), and has been converted from a flying winger into a dependable full-back in recent seasons.
But Valencia has struggled for game-time since Ole Gunnar Solskjaer took over in late December, having been left out of the squad for five out of six Premier League games under the affable Norwegian.
Although, blessed with huge experience and plenty of pace despite his 33 years, Valencia could be a superb addition for Newcastle or Fulham on and off the pitch.
According to the Northern Echo, however, a move to St James’ Park seems unlikely. The report states that owner Mike Ashley is unlikely to sanction a deal for a player who earns £100,000-a-week and has very little re-sale value as he enters the autumn of his career.
Under Ashley, Newcastle have often prioritised young, up-and-coming players with a view to making a future profit.
So this should be a boost for Fulham, with Claudio Ranieri’s side seemingly looking at proven, veteran players such as Ryan Babel, Gary Cahill and Medhi Benatia.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
