'Also told...' - Luke Edwards drops definitive Newcastle transfer update on powerful speedster

Luke Edwards has dropped some definitive Newcastle United transfer news on 21 year-old left-back Mitchel Bakker.

As per The Daily Mail journalist Craig Hope, Bayer Leverkusen want £16m if they are to sell Bakker to the St. James’ Park faithful in the January transfer window, and are prepared to sell if their valuation is met.

They are already looking at potential replacements for the left-back, should he move on.

The Magpies have already signed Kieran Trippier this month, but with 43 goals conceded in 21 games in the top flight this term, it would not be a surprise to see more upgrades at the back before the window closes on Monday.

According to The Daily Telegraph journalist Edwards, the potential deal to bring Bakker to the North East will not happen:

“Also told the Bakker deal is not happening too.”

It certainly is a blow for the Tyneside outfit that they now look set to miss out on Bakker.

He would be an upgrade on Eddie Howe’s current left-back options, as his His one goal and three assists in the Bundesliga so far this term tops Jamal Lewis, Matt Ritchie and Paul Dummett in the Premier League, and he is also averaging more clearances, dribbles and passes at a higher success than them (WhoScored).

Described as a player who has ‘pace and strength’ as well as ‘footballing ability’ by Leverkusen sporting director Rudi Voller following his move in the summer (via The Chronicle), Bakker has everything needed for a modern day full-back, and at just 21 years of age, he has so much potential.

However, it looks as if the Magpies will now have to look at other targets if they want to strengthen in that area of the pitch.

In other news, find out who Keith Downie believes may join NUFC here!

Source