Newcastle opinion: Should the Magpies consider a move for Diego Laxalt?

The Chronicle Live has reported that AC Milan are open to letting Newcastle United make an offer for their star Diego Laxalt. He arrived over the summer after an impressive campaign with Uruguay at the World Cup but has struggled to find a way into the first-team.

So far he’s made just 28 appearances in all competitions, with just 19 in the Serie A. Despite all that, Laxalt has played just 21% of the available minutes, which shows just how much manager Gennaro Gattuso rates him.

The 26-year-old left-back is ripe for picking. The Magpies really need another left-back, with manager Rafael Benitez having to get creative at times this season.

He’s often used Matt Ritchie to great effect as a left-back, with the former Bournemouth man impressing in that position. Ritchie is defensively sound and has done well for the club but he cannot be a long-term solution.

Paul Dummett, on the other hand, has struggled with injuries and that puts the onus on a new addition. The Magpies did add Antonio Barreca on loan but the Monaco man has played exactly four minutes for the club.

That leaves space for someone like Diego Laxalt to enter and make his mark. The 26-year-old needs a move to boost his confidence and the St James’ Park side can help him do just that.

A talented player, Laxalt needs regular game-time to show what he can do and Newcastle United need a player who can play for them. The 26-year-old has been a consistent fixture for every club he’s ever played for, making a career total of just under 200 appearances.

That kind of consistent and injury free condition is just what the Magpies need next season. Diego Laxalt’s versatility allows him to play across the left-flank as a left-winger, left wing-back or a left-back.

This means that no matter what formation Rafael Benitez uses, the 26-year-old will find a place for himself in the starting eleven.

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Conclusion

Diego Laxalt has the ability, athleticism and physicality to become a key player for Newcastle United in the near future. The move makes a lot of sense for both parties, and if the Magpies don’t make a move for the Uruguayan, they will regret it.