[Image] Here’s how Newcastle could fit their £9m imminent arrival in a 4-2-3-1

Expected Newcastle United line-up featuring Yoshinori Muto

Newcastle United’s transfer window hasn’t been pleasing given the fact that manager Rafa Benitez has to sell some of his fringe players if he needs new players in the squad.

Reports say that the Magpies are close to signing Mainz’s Japanese World Cup star Yoshinori Muto for a fee which edges towards £9m. The striker had a great tournament in Russia and is expected to join Newcastle pretty soon, as a deal has been agreed with German club Mainz.

Benitez was aware of the fact that Aleksandr Mitrovic might be sold to Fulham, so the Spaniard would be needing a striker who can lead the line or be an impact substitute if the Serb stays.

Here’s how the Newcastle line-up might look with Muto in the team:

Expected Newcastle United line-up

Formation: 4-2-3-1

Manager: Rafa Benitez

Martin Dubravka (GK)

As far as best loan signings are concerned, Dubravka to Newcastle could be right up there. The Czech was brilliant since his arrival in January on loan from Inter Milan and now that he’s been signed permanently, things look bright.

DeAndre Yedlin (RB)

The American right-back has the pace and defensive sturdiness. Expect him to start most games next season.

Jamaal Lascelles (CB)

If he stays at the club, Lascelles is probably the first name on the team sheet. The captain has been fantastic for the team and is a very important figure at the club.

Florian Lejeune (CB)

Lejeune has been a figure of consistency at the back for Newcastle. His partnership with Lascelles makes up for a secured backline.

Paul Dummett (LB)

Dummett doesn’t have the natural pace to bomb up and down the pitch all the time but he has defensive awareness, which could keep him in the team.

Ki Sung-Yong (CDM)

Ki will add defensive solidity and accurate passing range to this Newcastle central midfield.

Jonjo Shelvey (CM)

Shelvey was very influential last season, playing in the midfield role just ahead of the holding player. We are all well aware of his passing and shooting range, and he also adds some much-needed creativity.

Matt Ritchie (RW)

If Ritchie stays, he is certain to be in the starting XI. His goals and crossing from wide areas is something very crucial which the manager cannot afford to not make use of.

Christian Atsu (LW)

Atsu’s pace and threat in the wide areas is a nuisance for defenders. His crossing and dribbling are some of his imperious attributes.

Yoshinori Muto (SS)

The Japanese international can play as a support striker behind Mitrovic if the Serb stays, or lead the line if he leaves. Anyway, he is a handful for the defenders to handle.

Read More: Forget Townsend – Rafa should instead sign this speedy West Ham beast for Newcastle United

Aleksandr Mitrovic (ST)

Mitrovic is still at Newcastle, despite regular links of him moving to Fulham. His stay would be a massive boost for the Magpies as he can score vital goals.