Ajax’s Eredivisie left-back Nicolas Tagliafico is reportedly a target Newcastle United as Rafael Benitez hopes to boost his squad.
There is a real chance that Newcastle United could get to the end of another transfer window without signing an attack-minded left-back.
Jesus Gamez and Massadio Haidara were released at the start of the summer, meaning Paul Dummett is the only natural left-back in Newcastle’s squad with just days until the beginning of a new Premier League season.
Although that is not for a lack of trying.
The Sun claimed a week ago that Newcastle were interested in Ajax’s Argentina international Nicolas Tagliafico along with newly promoted Fulham, although the Cottagers appear now to be prioritising Matt Targett.
But Tagliafico is not a new name on Rafa Benitez’s radar. The Chronicle states that Newcastle have been watching him throughout the last 18 months, including during the latter stages of his time at Independiente.
He won the Copa Sudamericana with the Argentine outfit in 2017 before making the move to Ajax in January of this year. Blessed with lung-busting energy, the 25-year-old scored or assisted three goals in 15 Eredivisie starts for his new club.
As it stands, however, the Chronicle reports that Ajax’s asking price is proving to be a problem. And the fact that Newcastle cannot afford a modest £8 million speaks volumes about the problems at St James’ Park.
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