Villarreal Target Versatile Newcastle United Star To Provide Cover For Injured Chukwueze

Published: January 21, 2021

Villarreal manager Unai Emery is targeting a move for versatile Newcastle United defender Javier Manquillo in the January transfer window, according to reports.

The Yellow Submarine have been forced to delve into the transfer market after their Nigerian star Samuel Chukwueze suffered a groin injury which may require an operation.

In addition, right-sided players Gerard Moreno and Mario Gaspar are unavailable for selection due to injuries.

According to Spanish sports daily AS, Villarreal are in the market for a player who can be deployed as a winger and fullback, with Javier Manquillo (Newcastle United) and Gonzalo Montiel (River Plate) among the candidates being considered.

With only one fit winger in Ruben Pena, Emery had to field left-back Jaume Costa and central defender Juan Foyth as wingers in recent matches as he didn't have players for the position.

Chukwueze could face several weeks on the sidelines should he undergo surgery, making him a huge doubt for Nigeria's 2021 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Benin and Lesotho in March.

This season, Chukwueze has featured in 17 matches in the Spanish top-flight, scoring one goal and registering three assists.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel

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