Newcastle could be set to secure their third signing of the January transfer window with the arrival of Mitchel Bakker from Bayer Leverkusen.
The Magpies are set to discuss personal terms with the left back ahead of a potential move to the north east, as reported by the Telegraph.
Eddie Howe has expressed his frustration at the lack of transfer activity from the club this month but after his side’s 1-0 victory over Leeds at the weekend, he is hoping that it can have a positive knock on effect.
And Bakker, who has been a target for the Magpies this month, could be the next arrival at St. James’ Park if upcoming discussions go smoothly.
The 21-year-old only joined the German outfit from French giants PSG in the summer but after 13 appearances this season in the Bundesliga, he could be on the move once again.
Would this be a good signing for Newcastle? Let us know your thoughts in the comments section below.
Bakker signed a four year contract with Die Werkself in July but after some impressive performances this season, attention surrounding the player continued to grow and now the Magpies are ready to pounce.
Howe has been set on strengthening his defence this month and while a centre back has been the main priority, Kieran Trippier has already arrived at right back and now Bakker could be set to improve the other side of the defence.
And luckily for Newcastle, they can use their financial muscle to get this deal over the line as the clock runs down ahead of next week’s transfer deadline day.
With Ajax and PSG already on his CV, it tells you all you need to know about the potential of the 21-year-old and what he can bring to Howe’s team.
Another encouraging sign for Newcastle fans about the potential of this signing is the praise that Bakker has received from current Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel, who gave him his debut at PSG in January 2020.
Speaking to RMC Sport, Tuchel said: “He played very well. It was his first appearance as a starter. He was very, very good.
"I have to say that he was very reliable, very focused. It was a good performance.”
The German also told Dutch outlet Het Parool: “He was reliable and focused. I am very happy with Mitch and his physical qualities.
"It’s not easy for him because there is always a lot of pressure. You always have to win. But he responds well to that.”
The Netherlands under 21 international would face a difficult task of coming straight into the side and adapting to Premier League football but having already played in Ligue 1, the Champions League and the Bundesliga, it is hoped that this wouldn’t be a problem.
This would also mean that current left back Paul Dummett would most likely be used as second choice, although the main objective for Howe right now is survival and improving their leaky defence is a must if they are to do that.
