According to The Sun, Newcastle United are scouting two South American goalkeepers, one of whom Rafael Benitez is keen to sign in January
What’s the Story?
In a bid to improve his goalkeeping options Rafael Benitez has reportedly sent scouts to watch Fernando Muslera and Geronimo Rulli of Galatasaray and Real Sociedad respectively. Newcastle have been using Rob Elliott as their number one choice so far this season and the Englishman has impressed, keeping three clean sheets in nine appearances.
However, Benitez is believed to be looking for a long-term first-choice stopper and is keen to sign either Muslera or Rulli during the January transfer window.
How good has Muslera been this season?
Now a European goalkeeping veteran, Fernando Muslera has been holding down the number one shirt at Galatasaray for six years and has only just turned 31. The Uruguayan international is an astute shot stopper and has great distribution abilities. Valued at £9.9million by Transfermarkt, Muslera has played 11 times for his Turkish club this season, keeping four clean sheets and helping Galatasaray fly out of the gates in their domestic league.
How good has Rulli been this season?
At just 25, Geronimo Rulli’s lack of experience is more than made up for by his impressive performances for Real Sociedad this season. The Argentinian, who was on the books at Manchester City just 18 months ago, has managed four clean sheets in 12 games so far this campaign.
Valued at £12.6million by Transfermarkt, Rulli would likely cost more than Muslera. However, he is younger than the Uruguayan and showing signs that he is improving with every game.
