Javier Manquillo is about to start a new chapter in his career by leaving Newcastle United behind and joining Celta Vigo. The experienced 29-year-old right-back has not featured in Newcastle's first team this season due to muscle problems, but will return to his native Spain after a successful operation to reunite with Rafa Benítez, his former coach, in Newcastle.
Current Newcastle head coach Eddie Howe is looking for reinforcements during the January transfer window. However, the club faces financial constraints imposed by the Premier League's Profitability and Sustainability (PSR) regulations. With Newcastle close to their PSR limit, the departure of fringe players is necessary to make room for new signings, according to The Athletic.
A necessary sale for Newcastle
Newcastle are suffering from an injury crisis, with Joelinton joining the injured list last and expected to miss the rest of the season due to surgery on a groin tendon. This situation exacerbates the need for reinforcements, making Manquillo's departure to relieve payroll costs even more plausible.
Manquillo, Newcastle's fourth right-back, joins Kieran Trippier, Tino Livramento and Emil Krafth in the position. With his contract expiring at the end of the season, his move to Celta Vigo appears imminent. Rafa Benítez, now Celta coach, is close to re-teaming with Manquillo, who was signed by the Spanish coach during his time at Newcastle in 2017.
Celta de Vigo, currently in 16th place in La Liga, is looking to strengthen its squad with the signing of Manquillo, a strategic move to improve its position in the table and avoid the risk of relegation.
