REPORT: Newcastle confirms first exit, with defender reuniting with Rafa Benitez in La Liga.

Newcastle have confirmed the departure of defender Javier Manquillo, who has rejoined Celta Vigo under former manager Rafa Benitez.

The 29-year-old spent six and a half years at St James’ Park, assisting the Tynesiders to re-establish themselves as a Premier League club following their promotion in 2017.

Manquillo, who can play left-back or right-back, was an important player during Mike Ashley’s final years as Newcastle United’s owner.

However, since Eddie Howe arrived at Newcastle, the Spaniard has struggled to get game time. He last appeared in a competitive match in April 2022, when Tottenham defeated him 5-1.

The Spaniard made 110 appearances for Newcastle, scoring one goal and assisting seven times.

Manquillo will now reconnect with Benitez at Celta Vigo, the club that signed him from Newcastle.

As was the situation with the Magpies at the time, Manquillo will be thrust into a relegation battle, with the Spanish club only two points above the bottom three.

The sum has not been published, however it is expected that the transfer will be free. However, the agreement allows Newcastle to deduct the entire amount from its pay bill.

Benitez hopes Manquillo can play an important role in Celta Vigo’s survival.

“We can confirm that defender Javier Manquillo has joined La Liga side Celta Vigo on a permanent basis,” Newcastle announced on their website.

“The full-back returns to his native Spain following six-and-a-half years at St James’ Park, having arrived from Atlético Madrid in July 2017.”

“Manquillo made 110 appearances in all competitions for the Magpies, with his solitary goal for the club coming away to Manchester United in 2021.”

“The 29-year-old will now team up with former manager Rafa Benítez, whose team currently ranks 16th in La Liga.”

Eddie Howe warns Newcastle against Kalvin Phillips signing:

One of the most likely explanations is a lack of match fitness. Phillips will need some time to adjust to his new team after spending the majority of the previous two seasons warming the bench. Guardiola has also complained about the 31-cap international becoming overweight during his spell at City.

While Newcastle is no longer pursuing a deal for Phillips, he might yet make a significant move before the winter deadline.

On Friday, sources told TEAMtalk that West Ham United are now pursuing Phillips, who has long been admired by David Moyes.

As City eventually want to remove Phillips off their books permanently, he might sign for West Ham on loan from either.

Phillips might perhaps move on to the La Liga. According to recent reports from Spain, European heavyweights Barcelona and Atletico Madrid are keeping an eye on his status before making any potential moves.