According to an exclusive from Italian outlet Calcio Mercato, Newcastle United are in ‘pole position’ to sign Real Betis left-back Riza Durmisi, with Benitez readying a £10m offer for the 23-year old.

Whilst this story is taken with a pinch of salt, an exclusive from a similar European outlet claimed Javier Manquillo was on his way to Newcastle yesterday and that turned out to be bang on, with the Spaniard expected to sign today after completing his medical.

Durmisi is an attacking left-back and has enjoyed an impressive season in La Liga with Real Betis, registering 4 assists in his debut season with the Spaniards.

He has 15 caps for Denmark and has also been attracting interest from Liverpool, however Jurgen Klopp’s side have today agreed a fee for Hull left-back Andrew Robertson, seemingly putting them out of the race.

Paul Dummett was Rafa’s most used player last season, however added competition is required in the left-back slot, with Achraf Lazaar and Massaido Haidara futures almost certain to lie elsewhere this summer.

Here’s the diminutive Durmisi – who stands just 5ft 6′ tall – in action against Barcelona earlier this year:

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