Newcastle United are reportedly keen on Ritsu Doan.
Newcastle United are in the market for January signings – but one of their targets may be moving out of reach due to international commitments.
The Magpies drew 0-0 at home with Fulham on Saturday afternoon, and it is becoming clear that they need a new creative force to unlock teams at St James’ Park.
Atlanta United’s Miguel Almiron is a top target, but one name that entered the frame earlier this month was Ritsu Doan.
The Chronicle reported that Newcastle are keen on Groningen star Doan, and could launch a January move after seeing him notch four goals and two assists in 16 Eredivisie outings.
However, Doan has now been announced in the Japan squad for January’s AFC Asian Cup, and that may just force Newcastle to abandon any move.
Not only is Newcastle forward Yoshinori Muto also in the Japan squad too, but midfielder Ki Sung-yueng is in the South Korea squad, meaning the Magpies are two players down already.
Yes, Doan would be one for the future too, but Newcastle do need some impact now, and landing Doan but being prevented from using him would be a major blow.
The 20-year-old would also come back tired from his exploits in the Far East, and with two players already heading there, Benitez may not want a third.
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