Rafa Benitez set to raid Newcastle for forgotten man as Celta Vigo manager targets transfer swoop

RAFA BENITEZ is interested in a reunion with Newcastle defender Javier Manquillo at Celta Vigo, according to reports.

The Spanish manager, 63, brought compatriot Manquillo to St James’ Park back in 2017.

Rafa Benitez is beginning to turn things around at Celta VigoEPA

Javier Manquillo could be set to reunite with Benitez in SpainRichard Pelham / The Sun

The 29-year-old right-back featured 44 times during his two seasons under Benitez.

But in the four and a half years that have followed Benitez’s departure from Newcastle, he has started just 43 Premier League games.

And he has been totally outcast by Eddie Howe since the summer.

Manquillo has only featured in a Newcastle squad on two occasions this season – once in the league and once in the Carabao Cup.

On both occasions, he was an unused substitute.

But now Manquillo could be offered a lifeline by old boss, Benitez.

According to The Athletic, the Spanish defender is “in talks” with Celta Vigo.

It comes as Newcastle “look to offload fringe players” to free up space on their wage bill for any potential arrivals.

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Toon boss Howe revealed earlier this month that Financial Fair Play rules mean the club may not be able to sign anyone in the January window.

Newcastle had been linked with Bournemouth striker Dominic Solanke, but Howe insisted they cannot afford him.

Meanwhile, Benitez’s Celta Vigo are battling LaLiga relegation as they sit just two points above the drop zone.

But they have begun to show signs of improvement after a run of just one defeat in seven league matches.

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