Newcastle United are reportedly keen on the Sunderland defender.
Sunderland’s Bryan Oviedo in action
Reports emanating form Honduras this morning suggest that the Magpies are lining up a summer swoop for Black Cats left-back Bryan Oviedo, according to Honduran media outlet Diez.
The 27-year-old Costa Rican only moved to the Stadium of Light in January, after David Moyes brought him to the club from Everton, but with Sunderland’s relegation now confirmed, they could be looking to reduce their wage bill.
And fierce rivals Newcastle are reportedly keen on bringing Oviedo to St James’ Park.
Honduran newspaper Diez claim that Rafa Benitez is keen on strengthening his left-back options this summer, and sees the 31-capped Costa Rica international as the ideal acquisition.
Sunderland’s Bryan Oviedo in action
The former Toffees full-back has pace in abundance, and a superb positional sense. He is under contract for another three years with the Wearside outfit though, so he will still command a substantial transfer fee.
With Newcastle’s place in the Premier League now secure, however, they should be in a very strong position to tempt their arch rivals into selling Oviedo.
Benitez will undoubtedly have to strengthen his squad this summer, quite considerably so, and the signing of the Black Cats full-back would be a good place from which to start.
Newcastle United manager Rafa Benitez
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
