Newcastle United defender Javier Manquillo is a target for West Ham, according to reports.
West Ham are plotting a cut-price move for Manquillo in January. According to The Telegraph, West Ham will battle Brighton and Crystal Palace for the right-back.
Manquillo’s contract expires in six months and he could leave Newcastle. The Magpies will consider bids in January because they might lose him for nothing next summer.
The 25-year-old has recently been recalled to the Newcastle team. This season, he has played nine times under Steve Bruce (registering one assist). In total, he has played 53 times for Newcastle.
Manquillo has also played for Sunderland and Liverpool in England, as well as spending time with Atletico Madrid and Marseille. West Ham, Brighton or Palace could be his next destination.
West Ham’s right-back situation
West Ham are looking to strengthen the right-back area and Manquillo is a cheap option. This will appeal to the board with various reports suggesting that funds will be tight in the winter window.
At the moment, West Ham have three right-backs to choose from. Ryan Fredericks is the first choice in this position but his form can be unpredictable. Pablo Zabaleta is West Ham’s back-up but he is past his peak and out of contract next summer. Ben Johnson is the young option but the teenager is inexperienced.
This is why a new right-back will be targeted. However, should West Ham be aiming higher than Manquillo? Once again, West Ham take the cheap option with full-back recruitment.
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